Court Opinion

ID: 9847327
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-09-24 03:57:55.975585+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T09:17:07.369209
License: Public Domain

HALL, Chief Justice
(dissenting):
I do not join the Court in reversing the trial court because the judgment is supported by substantial evidence and is reasonable and proper under the facts and circumstances of this case. In accordance with the time-honored standard of appellate review, the issue presented is best left to the determination of the trial court.
In reaching its conclusion to reverse, the majority applies a sterile definition of the term “cohabitation” which is not in context with the usage of the term in the decree of divorce. As was observed by the trial court, the term “cohabitation” does not lend itself to a universal definition that is applicable in all settings. This is particularly evident in the instant case. Plaintiff is certainly “cohabiting with a male person” at least on a part-time basis.
The fallacy in applying such a sterile definition of the term “cohabitation” can be seen by applying the definition to a situation where one cohabits with more than one male person during the week or, conversely, where the male person is otherwise occupied and therefore only able to cohabit weekly.
I would affirm the judgment of the trial court.