It is a very common - and very awkward - scenario: a newly engaged couple breaks up because one of them has cheated/changed their mind and the engagement ring is up for grabs. Fortunately, the divorce/property division laws of most states seem to be fairly clear in these scenarios:

  • If the man cheats/changes his mind, the engagement ring goes to the woman
  • If the woman cheats/changes her mind, the engagement ring goes to the man
  • If neither party is at-fault (neither cheated or both parties changed their mind), the ring goes to the man

Interestingly, a star player with the National Football League is currently in the midst of just such a scenario.

Roy Williams, a wide receiver with the Dallas Cowboys, has filed a lawsuit seeking the return of a $76,000 engagement ring he gave - via the mail - to Brooke Daniels, a former Miss Texas USA, who turned down his mail-order proposal.

Williams claims in his court filings that Brooke Daniels claimed to have lost the ring when he asked for its return. However, he then goes on to state that an investigation into the matter by his insurance company revealed that the ring was actually being held by Brooke Daniel's father, Michael Daniels.

Michael Daniels has actually come forward to acknowledge possession of the rather sizeable ring, claiming that Williams told Brooke to keep the ring after she turned down his proposal because she would "eventually come back."

Now, it appears as if the ring is destined to return to Williams, as the Daniels' wants no part of any legal action.

"I want to wash my hands of it," said Michael Daniels in an interview with the Odessa American. "It's just a hassle. I'll take care of my daughter. I don't need him."

Stay tuned for more from our Phoenix divorce blog ...

If you would like more information regarding divorce or post-divorce modifications, you should strongly consider speaking with an experienced legal professional.

This post is provided for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.

Related Resources:

Cowboys' Williams sues to get engagement ring back from beauty queen (KENS 5 - San Antonio)