Our thanks to Gerry for this. An extract:
According to the document, each party has to share the location with the other 24/7, answer any calls from the other, and stay in daily contact.
The contract read: ‘Both parties are required to do the following: All issues with the opposite party are required to be brought to the attention of the party in question.
‘Arguments must result in resolution, apology, and closing action of affection (long distance will require a gift of some sort to be ordered to each party’s home).
‘Location must always be turned on. Every call seen must be answered. We must call at least once every day. Keep in continuous contact throughout the day. Always give extra reassurance.’
Devon and Geren also listed various things that would be considered violations of the contract.
‘Violation 16: Cheating, including but not limited to: sleeping with someone of the opposite sex, having any sexual contact with someone of the opposite sex, messaging or calling the opposite sex, or sexual innuendos with ill intent.
‘Violation 17: Slander against either party included in this contract; complaining about your relationship, speaking poorly about your partner, etc.
‘Violation 18: ‘Neglect of participating party’s emotional or physical state. Therefore, a lack of reassurance would be considered under this violation,’ the document read.
Because the document isn’t notarized, it is not legally binding, so if Devon or Geren do cheat, neither of them can sue.
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Astonishing.
Really silly season stuff. Having worked in female dominated industries all my working life I have to say no woman would stick to “violation 17”. Though actually I’m not against making the expectations in relationships explicit, particularly “common law” partnerships and Marriage and Civil Partnerships. It might help men a bit because as it is its the guys that get shafted because women get a free pass from their obligations, often due to men’s chivalry. At least an explicit contract may help in the bloke asserting his rights, rather than being all noble and generous to the fairer sex.