Legal Definitions - marital rights

Marital rights refer to the legal rights and privileges that a husband and wife have in relation to each other. These rights are typically established through the marriage contract and can include:

• The right to sexual relations with one's spouse
• The right to control the household and make decisions about family matters
• Property rights and other incidents of the marriage

For example, in some traditional societies, a husband may have the right to demand sexual relations from his wife at any time, regardless of her wishes. Similarly, he may have the final say in all household decisions, including financial matters and the upbringing of children.

However, it's important to note that these types of marital rights are increasingly seen as outdated and unfair, particularly in modern Western societies. Today, most couples strive for a more equal and mutually respectful partnership, where both partners have an equal say in all aspects of their lives together.