Equitable Distribution
The fair, though not necessarily equal, division of marital property based on various factors considered by the court.
Example
Under equitable distribution, the court awarded her 60% of marital assets due to his higher earning capacity.
Canadian Equivalent
In Canada, this is referred to as Net Family Property Division (ON) / Family Property Division (AB, BC) / Equalization Payment.
Jurisdiction Variations
Community Property (equal 50/50 split)
California is a community property state — assets split equally, not equitably
Community Property
Arizona is a community property state
Community Property (quasi-community for out-of-state assets)
Idaho is a community property state
Community Property (based on French civil law tradition)
Louisiana uses community property under civil law
Community Property
Nevada is a community property state
Community Property
New Mexico is a community property state
Community Property (with 'just and right' division)
Texas is a community property state but court divides in a 'just and right' manner, not necessarily 50/50
Community Property (with equitable discretion)
Washington is community property but court has discretion for equitable division
Marital Property / Community Property
Wisconsin uses 'marital property' under its Marital Property Act (based on UMPA, similar to community property)