What is an equitable distribution of assets?

Equitable distribution of assets is a legal process used in Washington state during a collaborative divorce to divide property and assets fairly between two spouses. This process is used when two spouses are unable to agree on how to split their assets. In Washington, when dissolving a marriage, courts use state laws to ensure that division of marital property and assets is fair and equitable. All assets and debts that have been acquired during the marriage are categorized as marital property and will be divided in a way that is fair to both parties. Equitable distribution of assets takes into consideration both spouses’ contributions to the marriage, including monetary and nonmonetary contributions like providing domestic services, supporting a spouse’s career, and raising and caring for children. Other factors, such as the length of the marriage, the emotional and financial needs of each party, and the future earning potential for each spouse are also considered. The court assigns a value to each asset and then attempts to split those assets in a way that is deemed fair to both parties. In Washington, these assets can include real estate, motor vehicles, personal property, retirement benefits, and more. Once the court has determined the value of each asset, they will attempt to divide the assets in a way that reflects the contributions each spouse made during the marriage.

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