Colorado will not be a neighborhood property state. As an alternative, it follows the precept of equitable distribution. Because of this in a divorce, marital property is split pretty and equitably, not essentially equally. For instance, if one partner considerably contributed to the marital property financially or as a homemaker, the courtroom could award them a better share of the belongings. Separate property, akin to belongings acquired earlier than the wedding or via inheritance or present throughout the marriage, usually stays the property of the person.
The equitable distribution system goals for a simply and truthful division of belongings, contemplating the distinctive circumstances of every marriage. Elements thought of by courts can embody the size of the wedding, every partner’s financial circumstances, contributions to the wedding (together with homemaking and childcare), and any dissipation of belongings. This differs considerably from neighborhood property states, the place all belongings acquired throughout the marriage are usually thought of equally owned by each spouses no matter particular person contribution.