LODD Firefighter’s Estate Leads to Bizzare Legal Challenge

Posted by: Curt Varone July 19, 2010 2 Comments

I was totally speechless after reading this story about Fire Captain Thomas Araguz, who was killed 2 weeks ago on July 3 at a structure fire in Wharton, Texas. Thankfully – there is a video to explain the details so I don't have to – but you won't believe this story. Every time I think Hollywood goes overboard in making up a story for Law and Order or CSI, I see a story like this.

The law on the subject is actually pretty straightforward. Fraud is grounds for the annullment of a marriage. Violation of law or public policy is as well (although some may argue the law in Texas is discriminatory). In either event – whether on the grounds of a same sex marriage or fraud – an annulled marriage is void from the beginning…. as if it never happened. That means his ex-wife.. er… first mate – is out. 

 Wow. I am so glad I got the url www.youcantmakethisstuffup.net.

About Curt Varone

Curt Varone has over 45 years of fire service experience and 35 as a practicing attorney licensed in both Rhode Island and Maine. His background includes 29 years as a career firefighter in Providence (retiring as a Deputy Assistant Chief), as well as volunteer and paid on call experience. He is the author of two books: Legal Considerations for Fire and Emergency Services, (2006, 2nd ed. 2011, 3rd ed. 2014, 4th ed. 2022) and Fire Officer's Legal Handbook (2007), and is a contributing editor for Firehouse Magazine writing the Fire Law column.
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