California operates under community property laws regarding the division of assets in divorce proceedings. This means that property acquired during the marriage is generally divided equally between the parties. Separate property, defined as assets owned before the marriage, acquired during the marriage as a gift or inheritance, or acquired after separation, is not subject to this equal division.
The concept of community property aims to ensure fairness and equity in the distribution of wealth accumulated jointly throughout the marriage. It acknowledges the contributions, both financial and non-financial, of each spouse to the marital estate. This legal framework has evolved over time, reflecting societal changes and a growing emphasis on gender equality in marital dissolution.