Dividing marital property is one of the most contentious aspects of a divorce. Tension typically runs high during the distribution of significant assets like real estate and items of great emotional value like pets. The Law Office and Mediation Center of Jeannine M. Talbot in Torrington, CT, has extensive experience with family law matters, including divorce, child custody, and alimony, and explains potential outcomes of property division.

A Divorce Lawyer Shares Insight on Asset Distribution

What Happens to the House?

In Connecticut, the courts strive to divide assets equitably, which means fairly rather than equally. Thus, you cannot count on getting 50% of the equity in your home. A variety of factors determines how the court divides major assets like real estate, but you and your spouse will have a say in the matter.

For example, you can agree to sell your house, but the court might determine the percentage of the proceeds each of you will receive. You also could agree one of you will keep your home; as long as you reach an accord on the matter, the court will not dispute it.

Who Keeps the Dog?

You might consider your dog to be part of your family, but pets are considered personal property in the eyes of the law. If either spouse owned the pet prior to their marriage, the court will award the animal to them after the divorce. Otherwise, it might come down to who acted as the pet’s primary caregiver by purchasing food, walking them, and arranging for their veterinary care. The living situation best suited to pet ownership also will be considered.

Who Gets the Car?

If you have a car loan, you must assign it to one spouse. If you cannot agree on who will take responsibility for it, a judge will decide. The same applies to vehicles that do not have an accompanying loan — if you and your spouse agree on who will assume ownership, the court is likely to sign off on the arrangement as long as it is reasonable. Your divorce lawyer can help you devise an agreement the court will accept.  

If you are considering a divorce, turn to The Law Office and Mediation Center of Jeannine M. Talbot. As a family law attorney in Torrington, CT, she can answer your questions about property division. Call (860) 482-9004 to schedule a consultation with a divorce lawyer. Check their Facebook and Google+ pages for more insight from their legal team.