North Carolina 'Homewrecker' Law Under Spotlight as Kyrsten Sinema Faces Alienation of Affection Suit
Raleigh attorney Charles R. Ullman discusses the implications of North Carolina's alienation of affection law in a high-profile lawsuit against former Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, highlighting the legal remedy available to wronged spouses.
A high-profile lawsuit filed in Moore County Superior Court has thrust North Carolina's rarely used "homewrecker" law into the national spotlight. Former Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema is the defendant in an alienation of affection claim, accused of having an affair with her married bodyguard. The bodyguard's wife alleges that Sinema knowingly pursued her husband, sending romantic messages, giving gifts, and taking him on trips, despite knowing he was married with children.
North Carolina is one of the few states that still recognizes alienation of affection claims, which allow a spouse to sue a third party for interfering with their marriage and causing a loss of love and affection. The case has sparked debate over whether someone who breaks up a marriage should be held legally responsible, but Raleigh divorce attorney Charles R. Ullman sees these claims as a vital path for wronged spouses to seek accountability.
"I think it's more about trying to find a remedy," Ullman told Fox News Digital. "Giving the person that's been wronged an opportunity at getting some type of relief." Ullman, a board-certified specialist in family law with 25 years of experience, emphasizes that alienation of affection claims provide a legal avenue for holding affair partners accountable for the harm caused to a marriage.
The lawsuit against Sinema highlights the emotional and financial impact that infidelity can have on a family. While some critics question the relevance of such laws in modern society, Ullman argues that they serve an important purpose. "It's about trying to find a remedy for the person who has been wronged," he reiterated.
As the case proceeds, it is likely to draw further attention to North Carolina's unique legal landscape. The state is one of only a handful that still permits alienation of affection lawsuits, and this high-profile case could influence public perception and potential legislative changes. For now, Ullman and other family law attorneys are watching closely to see how the court handles the allegations.
The lawsuit serves as a reminder that in North Carolina, actions that undermine a marriage can have legal consequences beyond divorce proceedings. As the legal system grapples with the complexities of modern relationships, cases like Sinema's underscore the enduring relevance of laws designed to protect the sanctity of marriage.