---
title: "Family Patrimony vs. Matrimonial Regime in Quebec ✦ Goldwater Droit"
canonical_url: "https://goldwaterdroit.com/en/faqs/difference-between-family-patrimony-and-matrimonial-regime-quebec"
last_updated: "2026-09-15T21:34:02.281Z"
locale: en
meta:
  description: "In Quebec, the family patrimony (arts. 414–426 C.c.Q.) is a mandatory equal split; your matrimonial regime governs the rest and can be chosen by contract."
  "og:description": "In Quebec, the family patrimony (arts. 414–426 C.c.Q.) is a mandatory equal split; your matrimonial regime governs the rest and can be chosen by contract."
  "og:title": "Family Patrimony vs. Matrimonial Regime in Quebec"
---

# What is the difference between the family patrimony and my matrimonial regime in Quebec?

They are two distinct layers of Quebec's property rules. The family patrimony, under articles 414 to 426 of the Civil Code of Québec, comprises specific assets—family residences, furniture used by the household, family vehicles, and retirement rights accrued during the union—whose net value is divided equally when the union ends; it is a matter of public order and cannot be excluded by contract. The matrimonial regime governs everything else: by default it is the partnership of acquests under article 432 C.c.Q., but spouses can choose a different regime, such as separation as to property, by marriage contract. In short, the family patrimony is a mandatory equal split of listed assets, while the matrimonial regime is the adjustable framework for the rest of the couple's property.

Civil Code of Québec, arts. 414–426 (family patrimony) Civil Code of Québec, arts. 432, 448–484 (partnership of acquests)