Personal Property
Movable possessions such as vehicles, furniture, jewelry, art, electronics, and other items that are not real estate.
Understanding Personal Property
Personal property in divorce includes everything from cars and furniture to clothing, collections, tools, pets, and digital assets. Division can be contentious, especially for items with sentimental value. Courts typically divide personal property by agreement, but if spouses cannot agree, a judge will assign items based on factors like who uses the item, who purchased it, and overall fairness. High-value personal property like art collections, jewelry, or vehicles may require professional appraisal. Creating a detailed inventory early in the process helps prevent disputes.
Real-World Examples
They divided personal property by each making a list of desired items, alternating picks, with the remaining items sold and proceeds split equally.
Related Terms
All assets and debts acquired by either spouse during the marriage, which are subject to division in divorce.
Fair Market ValueThe price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller for an asset, with both having reasonable knowledge of the relevant facts.
PartitionThe legal process of dividing jointly-owned property, either by physical division or by forced sale with proceeds split between the owners.
Have Questions About Personal Property?
Our AI advisor can explain how personal property applies to your specific situation — free, private, and available 24/7.
Ask About Personal PropertyWas this helpful? Help us keep it free.
divorce911.ai is funded entirely by donations. Every dollar keeps the AI assistant and 1,700+ guides free for people in crisis.
Know someone going through a divorce? This could help them.
This definition is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws and terminology may vary by state and jurisdiction.
Always consult a licensed attorney in your area for advice specific to your situation.