What occurs if property is omitted during the dissolution proceedings?

When property is omitted during the dissolution proceedings, the key principle is that if the property is discovered before the appeal period ends, the court retains the authority to address it. This means that the court will review the situation and may order a division of the omitted property, ensuring that both parties receive a fair outcome based on equitable distribution principles. The critical factor here is timing—the discovery of the property must occur within the timeframe allowed for appeals, which allows for adjustments to the original division of assets.

In contrast, other options do not accurately reflect the legal principles guiding divorce and property division. For instance, the idea that the omitted property cannot be claimed later overlooks the court's ability to adjust its orders if the property is revealed in a timely manner. Additionally, asserting that the property automatically belongs to the spouse who omits it mischaracterizes the equitable distribution framework, which emphasizes fairness rather than ownership based on omission. Lastly, suggesting that a new trial must be held for the omitted property is unnecessary, as the court can manage the division without requiring a full retrial, especially if such property can be addressed during the existing proceedings.