How is a degree or license treated in the context of marital property?

In family law, particularly in divorce proceedings, the treatment of degrees or licenses can be nuanced. The correct perspective is that a spouse may receive compensation for contributions toward the acquisition of a degree or license. This recognizes the supportive role one spouse may have played while the other spouse pursued their education or professional qualifications, which can be seen as a form of marital investment.

When a spouse contributes to the other’s education—whether through financial support, household duties, or other means—this contribution can be considerable in size and impact. Courts often acknowledge these contributions when calculating equitable distribution of marital assets, even if the degree or license itself is not classified as marital property. This approach supports fairness and equity, ensuring that a spouse's sacrifices are recognized in the financial settlement.

In contrast, degrees or licenses are not automatically classified as marital property nor entirely excluded from consideration in divorce proceedings. They may not be marital property in the same way physical assets are, but the contributions made toward earning them can merit a claim to financial reimbursement or benefits in the distribution of marital assets. This legal principle aims to prevent unjust enrichment and promote fairness between spouses during asset division.