Steffen v. Smith

Citations

• 159 Pa. 207
• 28 A. 295
• 1893 Pa. LEXIS 1497

Syllabus

<p>Married woman — Contracts—Purchase of real estate — Act 1887.</p> <p>Under the married persons’ property act of June 3, 1887, P. L. 332, a married woman may enter into a contract to purchase real estate for the purpose of a residence for herself and family, and she is personally liable for the money borrowed to pay for it.</p> <p>The word “ improvement” in the act does not contract or even color the meaning of the words “ use” and “ enjoyment.” These words were coupled with the word “ improvement” for the sake of convenience, but they were employed to express distinct and independent purposes in reference to the separate estate. The acquisition of land may be an advantageous use and enjoyment of her separate estate.</p> <p>With the exception of such disabilities as are particularly specified in or contemplated by the provisions of the act, married women are emancipated from their common law disabilities, and are authorized to incur contract liabilities as if they were femme sole.</p>