What is quasi-community property?

Here in California, we often pride ourselves on being significantly different from other states in the union. Out here on the coast, there’s always something to do and the weather is usually perfect! However, our differences often have surprising legal implications as well. California is one of only a few states that uses community property guidelines to determine how property gets divided in a divorce. Things can get particularly tricky when a divorcing couple previously lived in another state where they acquired property.

According to community property guidelines, most property a married couple (or, in some cases, domestic partnership) acquires while married is considered to be community property. In contrast, property acquired by a married couple while residing in another state is considered quasi-community property.

While this property may have a different legal designation, it is generally treated the same way as community property in a divorce or legal separation in California. For instance, if you and your spouse lived in Nashville for some period of time during your marriage and bought real estate there, then that property will probably be treated like community property for the purposes of your divorce.

Of course, this is a very simple explanation of a very complex process. If you are facing a divorce in California, especially if you have significant assets, it is wise to seek out the help of an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that your rights and priorities remain protected. With the guidance of an experienced attorney, you can focus on preparing the next chapter of life after this difficult season.

Source: Courts. ca. gov, “Property and Debt in a Divorce or Legal Separation,” accessed July 18, 2017