Property division is one of the major issues in Connecticut divorces, and many people wonder whether CT is a 50/50 divorce state. When it comes to dividing property in a divorce, Connecticut is an “equitable distribution” state. It is not, as is sometimes misunderstood, a “community property” state.
“Equitable” does not necessarily translate to 50%/50%.
Read on to learn what it does mean.
What is Equitable Distribution in Connecticut?
Courts in equitable distribution states like Connecticut divide marital property according to what is fair, or equitable, for both spouses. This isn’t the same as equal distribution.
Equitable does not necessarily mean 50/50.
The focus of equitable distribution is the needs of each spouse and the facts of the case. The spouses either reach an agreement on what constitutes an equitable distribution of property, or the judge decides.
The keyword when you think of equitable distribution is equitable.
How Does Property Division Work in Connecticut?
Equitable distribution in Connecticut’s is quite different from other states that follow the equitable distribution rule of property division. This is because, in addition to being an equitable distribution state, Connecticut is an “all property state.”
In a Connecticut divorce, family law courts have broad authority to award marital property to either spouse, regardless of:
- how it is titled
- when it was acquired
- or whether it was received as a gift or inheritance.
In Connecticut, all property is marital property, which is a sharp contrast to the law in most equitable distribution states. In theory, this means that everything owned by both spouses (and all debts owned by both spouses) is “fair game” or subject to division in a Connecticut divorce. This is what makes Connecticut an “all property” state, which means that everything the couple owns or owes is fair game when it comes to dividing things up in divorce.
The Comprehensive Connecticut Property Division Guide
How to divide property is one of the most important issues in divorces. And, it’s one of the most confusing. There are no set formulas or rules on how property will be divided. The good news is that creates tremendous flexibility for experienced divorce attorneys to craft an individualized approach. In order to prepare to make solid and informed decisions, you need to understand how property division works. Our Comprehensive Connecticut Property Division Guide tells you everything you need to know about property division in Connecticut. Read:Property Division: The Comprehensive Connecticut Guide
Next Steps
The fact that CT isn’t a 50/50 divorce state means there is a lot of opportunity for creative negotiations, strategy, and solutions. It’s important to have an experienced divorced legal team as your guide.
Our first step at Freed Marcroft, the Goals & Planning Conference, is designed to get to the heart of your problem and unveil your true goals. Then, we take those goals, analyze them along with the facts of your case, and present you with recommendations and options on how to move forward.
