Understanding Community Property With Canterbury Law Group

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Aug. 6, 2015 - PRLog -- Celebrity couples like Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale as well as Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner have recently filed for divorce, and news of their divorce is often followed by a discussion of their acquired community property.  California, like Arizona, is a community property state.  When filing for divorce in either of these states, one must understand what community property entails. The Scottsdale divorce lawyers at Canterbury Law Group has significant practical experience in community property laws to ensure the best financial outcome for your marital dissolution.


What is community property?

Generally speaking, community property is all property and profits acquired or earned by either spouse during the marriage, with the exception of inheritances, specific gifts to one of the spouses and property and profits clearly traceable to separate property owned before marriage. Community property is a concept which began in Spain to protect rich women from losing everything to profligate husbands, and is only officially recognized in some states which were once under or influenced by Spanish or Mexican control, including California and Arizona.  Community property recognizes the equal contribution of both parties to the marriage even though one or the other may earn more income through employment.  Community property is recognized based on fact or agreement of the parties, rather than holding of title. The state courts have wavered on what constitutes proof of community property, including the issue of whether joint tenancy is evidence of community property or not. Many states have adopted statutes which provide for equal distribution of community property after a divorce unless a prenuptial agreement was put in place.


About Canterbury Law Group

Canterbury Law Group, formerly Edwards & Cherney LLP, was founded in Scottsdale, Arizona in 2012 with dedication to providing sound legal counsel at the highest level possible.  As authorities in the legal industry, the team at Canterbury Law Group was uniquely formed to provide no-nonsense legal counsel for cases dealing with litigation, corporate law, family law, federal bankruptcies and complex real estate issues.   The group at Canterbury consists of a unified team of litigators and paralegals with the experience necessary to deliver high results. The team’s attention, experience and sophistication allows for innovative resolutions that generate great client results. Sometimes preparation for a divorce can take longer than the actual case once filed.  For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit www.canterburylawgroup.com.