What is the ratio in Hyde v Hyde and Woodmansee?

English law recognizes marriage only as the voluntary union for life of one man and one woman, to the exclusion of all others. Polygamous marriages cannot be recognized under English matrimonial law.

What did the court decide in Hyde v Hyde and Woodmansee?

The court established the classic definition of marriage and refused to recognize polygamous unions, holding that English law only recognizes monogamous marriage between one man and one woman.

Why is Hyde v Hyde and Woodmansee important for family law?

It provided the foundational legal definition of marriage that governed English law for over 150 years and remains crucial for understanding the historical development of marriage law.

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