Each state has its own procedures and guidelines for how to divvy up the property between spouses when a marriage comes to an end. In the state of Indiana, the equitable distribution of property and debt that a married couple accumulates during their time together is the law of the land. It is extremely important that every aspect of a marriage is examined so that when a divorce is finalized, both parties are treated fairly.
Whether you are able to come together amicably with your ex or your separation is contentious, Christopher L. Arrington is an Indiana divorce attorney who can help you through this difficult time. Christopher L. Arrington will work with you and defend your rights so that you are not short-changed after your divorce comes to its end. Christopher L. Arrington knows how hard it can be for couples that are dissolving their partnership, and when there are kids involved it can be even more distressing. Christopher L. Arrington will advocate on your behalf so that you see the best possible outcome for your circumstances.
What Types of Assets are Considered in Indiana Divorces?
There are both non-monetary as well as monetary contributions considered in a divorce. While it may seem like a partner that contributes more financially to a union should be awarded more property than the other spouse, the opposite actually happens more often. When one party supports a partnership through non-monetary actions, to ensure that the division of property is actually fair, that partner can be given a larger amount of the property.
Stay-at-home parents are a common example of how one party can contribute more through actions than money. Types of non-monetary contributions that are taken into account when it comes to an equitable division of assets in Indiana include:
- Chores and responsibilities keeping up a home
- Outdoor responsibilities keeping up a home, like mowing the lawn
- Gardening
- Running errands
- Transporting children to activities and school
- Family counseling
- Religious guidance
- Raising children
- Managing the household budget
- Cooking
Typically, all the responsibilities each party engages in will be examined and a judge will assign a value to those actions. The judge not only looks at the positive actions that one spouse brings to their union but they will also look at any economic misconduct that took place and could have added to the degradation of the marriage. When there is economic misconduct, this is when a spouse recklessly wastes assets. For example, the following behaviors are considered economic misconduct:
- Wasting money on gambling
- Overindulgence when it comes to spending
- Destruction of property
- Using marital funds to spend on an extramarital affair
- Fraudulently selling marital property
In the event that economic misconduct is found in an Indiana divorce situation, it is well within the judge’s rights to punish a spouse by awarding their ex with a larger portion of the marital property.
Speak With an Indiana Divorce Attorney Today
Ensuring that you walk away from your divorce with the desired outcome is the goal of Christopher L. Arrington. Call Christopher L. Arrington, a Danville divorce attorney at (317) 745-4494 to schedule your free consultation today.