Separate Property in California.

In California, separate property refers to assets and debts that are owned solely by one spouse and are not considered part of the community property. Separate property can be acquired in several ways: Property owned before marriage: Any property that a spouse owned before the marriage remains their separate property unless it is commingled or transmuted into community property. Property acquired by gift or inheritance: Assets received as a gift or through inheritance by one spouse during the marriage are generally considered separate property. However, if the gift or inheritance is commingled with community property, it may lose its separate property status. Property acquired after legal separation: If spouses are legally separate, any property acquired after the separation is generally considered separate property. Property acquired with separate funds: If one spouse uses their separate funds, such as money from their separate bank account, to purchase an asset, that asset may be considered separate property. It's worth noting that the distinction between community property and separate property can sometimes be complex and may require legal analysis, especially when there are disputes or significant assets involved. It's advisable to consult with a qualified family law attorney for personalized advice regarding property rights and division in California.