If a property is bought during the marriage by one spouse, what is this property classified as in Arizona?

In Arizona, the classification of property acquired during marriage primarily falls under the concept of community property. The state operates under community property laws, which dictate that any property acquired by either spouse during the marriage is considered community property, regardless of whose name is on the title.

This means that the property is jointly owned by both spouses and is subject to equal division in the event of a divorce or legal separation. The principle behind this classification is rooted in the belief that marriage entails a partnership where both spouses contribute to the acquisition and maintenance of property, whether through direct monetary contribution or through supporting roles, such as homemaking.

In contrast, separate property refers to assets that were owned by one spouse before marriage or were acquired by one spouse through inheritance or gifts. This property remains the sole property of that individual and is not subject to division during divorce proceedings. Joint tenancy and tenants in common describe forms of ownership characteristics rather than classification related to marital property. Joint tenancy implies equal ownership with rights of survivorship, while tenants in common allow for shared ownership but without survivorship rights.

In summary, when a property is bought during a marriage in Arizona, it is characterized as community property, recognizing the shared financial partnership inherent in marriage.