Tennessee is classed as a separate property state. This authorized distinction implies that belongings acquired throughout a wedding are typically thought of owned by the person who acquired them. As an illustration, if one partner earns a wage, that revenue and any purchases made with it are usually considered as belonging solely to that partner. Items and inheritances obtained by one partner in the course of the marriage are additionally thought of separate property.
This method has important implications for asset division in circumstances of divorce or demise. Relatively than mechanically splitting belongings 50/50, as in neighborhood property states, Tennessee courts usually divide property in accordance with equitable distribution rules. These rules take into consideration quite a lot of elements, together with every partner’s contribution to the wedding, each monetary and non-financial. This distinction considerably impacts property planning and monetary choices for married {couples} residing in Tennessee. Understanding the state’s separate property system is crucial for shielding particular person monetary pursuits and planning for the longer term.