How is marital property divided on divorce?
How the answer differs across 10 jurisdictions
GermanyFull article In Germany, marital property is divided through the 'equalization of accrued gains' (Zugewinnausgleich): the spouse with higher net asset growth during marriage pays half the difference to the other spouse.
CanadaFull article In Canada, debts incurred during marriage are generally divided equally between spouses on divorce, unless it would be clearly unfair — courts consider factors like when and why the debt was incurred and who benefited.
AustraliaFull article Property division after divorce in Australia follows a four-step process under the Family Law Act: identify assets, assess contributions, consider future needs, and make a just and equitable order.
IrelandFull article On divorce in Ireland, matrimonial assets are divided by the court based on principles of fairness, considering factors like duration of marriage, contributions of each spouse, and needs of any dependent children.
SingaporeFull article In Singapore, the court has broad powers under the Women's Charter to order full financial disclosure and compel your spouse to reveal hidden assets during divorce proceedings.
Courts in England and Wales divide divorce finances fairly—not necessarily equally—by considering all circumstances, especially the welfare of any children under 18 and the parties’ needs, resources, and conduct.
US-CaliforniaFull article In California, community property is generally divided equally (50/50) between spouses in a divorce, unless they agree otherwise or a court finds compelling reasons for an unequal division.
US-New YorkFull article New York divides marital property equitably—not necessarily equally—based on factors like length of marriage, income, and contributions to the marriage.
South KoreaFull article In South Korea, marital property is generally divided equally upon divorce, unless there is a valid prenuptial agreement or special circumstances justify an unequal split.
JapanFull article In Japan, there is no fixed statutory property division ratio; courts typically aim for an equal (50:50) split of marital assets, but may adjust based on factors like contribution, duration of marriage, and future needs.
Read Full Articles
GermanyHow is marital property divided in divorce?
CanadaHow are debts divided between spouses on divorce?
AustraliaHow is property divided between spouses after divorce in Australia?
IrelandHow are matrimonial assets divided on divorce?
SingaporeMy spouse is hiding assets. How can I trace them?
UKHow are finances divided upon divorce?
US-CaliforniaHow is community property divided in a California divorce?
US-New YorkHow is marital property divided in a New York divorce?
South KoreaHow is property divided upon divorce?
JapanWhat is the typical property division ratio?Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: June 2026.