Heart Balm Torts: The History and Purpose

Heart balm torts, also known as heart balm lawsuits, are legal actions that date back to the 1600s and were initially introduced in English common law. These lawsuits revolve around breaches of promise and cases of seduction, infidelity, or interference in a marriage. The purpose of heart balm torts originally aimed to provide economic protection for women, recognizing marriage as a crucial economic decision in their lives where they could suffer significant financial harm. These lawsuits acknowledged the economic interweaving of marriage, including joint assets, property ownership, and the importance of financial security. Although heart balm lawsuits have been outlawed in many states, North Carolina remains a notable exception, with numerous cases still being filed each year.