Divorce is a stressful experience that can be made even more challenging when you and your ex aren't able to agree on issues such as the division of your assets. Since Connecticut is an equitable distribution state, the court will determine how assets should be divided if you're unable to outline your own arrangement. Learn more about this process so you and your attorney can find the most favorable outcome for your situation.

What’s the Difference Between Marital & Separate Property?

Before any of your property or assets can be split, the court must determine the difference between your marital assets and those that are separate. To make this decision, the judge will review what was purchased during your marriage, and what you bought before or inherited during the partnership. However, if a particular asset benefited both parties throughout the marriage, the court may opt to treat that property as marital property, regardless of how it was obtained.

What Factors Are Used to Determine the Division of Assets?

When determining how to divide property and assets, the court will consider several factors. These may include the length of your marriage, each person's contribution to the partnership, how much each person earned, your past standard of living, child custody arrangements, and the possible tax consequences of the property division. In the end, even though each judge has the right to outline the division as they see fit, the rule of thumb is the longer you and your spouse were married, the more likely it is that your assets will be distributed equally.

If you’re filing for divorce and need an attorney to guide you through the process, turn to The Law Office of Gregory G. St. John, LLC in Waterbury, CT. They have over 40 years of experience handling family law cases in New Haven and Litchfield counties, and they’ll use their knowledge to manage your upcoming proceedings. To learn more about their services, visit their website. To schedule an initial consultation with an attorney, call (203) 759-0240.