How are assets divided after divorce in Quebec?

In Québec, the division of assets after divorce follows the rules of the family patrimony and the matrimonial regime. Under C.c.Q. arts. 414–423, certain property acquired during marriage—such as the family residence, furnishings, vehicles, and the value of pension and retirement plans—forms the family patrimony and must be equally divided between spouses, regardless of who paid for them. Property not part of the family patrimony, such as personal gifts, inheritances, or business assets, remains the individual property of each spouse. After partition of the family patrimony, the spouses’ matrimonial regime (typically the partnership of acquests, unless otherwise agreed by marriage contract) is also liquidated to determine each spouse’s share of remaining assets and debts.