What term describes property that belongs solely to one spouse and not subject to division during a divorce?

The term that describes property belonging solely to one spouse and not subject to division during a divorce is "separate property." This concept is essential in divorce law, as it differentiates between assets that are owned individually and those that are jointly owned by both spouses.

Separate property typically includes assets that were owned by one spouse prior to the marriage, inheritances received solely by one spouse, and gifts given exclusively to one spouse. Because this property is not considered part of the marital estate, it remains with the original owner without the need for division during divorce proceedings.

In contrast, community property refers to assets acquired during the marriage that are generally subject to equal division upon divorce, while the term "tagged property" does not have a recognized legal definition in this context. "Contingent property" is also not a commonly used term in relation to property division in a divorce. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for navigating property rights in a marital dissolution.