Question:
Can a spouse in Texas sue a third party for negligently interfering with their marriage?
Answer:
No, Texas law does not recognize a cause of action for negligent interference with a marital relationship. In Helena Laboratories Corp. v. Snyder, 886 S.W.2d 767 (Tex. 1994) (per curiam), the Texas Supreme Court held that no independent cause of action exists for negligent interference with the familial relationship. This decision aligns with Texas Family Code Section 1.107, which explicitly states that a right of action by one spouse against a third party for alienation of affection is not authorized in the state. The court emphasized that allowing such claims would contravene the legislative intent to abolish causes of action based on interference with familial relationships.