Aside from the custody of children, the distribution of marital property is often the most contested aspect of any divorce. In essence, a divorce signifies the dissolution of a contractual financial agreement between husband and wife. All of the assets of the marital couple are on the table and part of the negotiation and dispute.
In Connecticut, the Court has broad discretion to grant property held by either spouse to the other. Nevertheless, there are certain principles and rules the Court follows. The Court shall consider the length of the marriage, the causes for the annulment, dissolution of the marriage or legal separation, the age, health, station, vocational skills, employability, occupation, liabilities, and needs of each of the parties, as well as the opportunity of each for future acquisition of capital assets and income. The court shall also consider the contribution of each of the parties in the acquisition, preservation or appreciation in value of their respective estates.
In Connecticut it does not matter whether the property was obtained before or after marriage, whether it was held by one party or the other.
The marital property laws in Connecticut are different form many other states, including New York. In Connecticut, it is important to remember:
- Connecticut law does not contain any distinctions or limitations of distribution of property to one partner or the other in dissolution of marriage based on title or form of ownership.
- Distribution is not limited to property which is held in the names of spouses jointly.
- Connecticut does not limit distribution to property acquired during the marriage or prior to the commencement of the action n for divorce or the actual separation of parties.
At the M.C. Law Group we will work hard to make sure you get a fair deal in the distribution of marital property. There is no guarantee of any outcome; however, we know what information the Courts need to make their decision and how to present the information in the best possible light for your case. We also have the experience and knowledge to give you a reasonably sound evaluation of what to expect and if a particular settlement offer is fair.
a consultation, please
