Assets received by one spouse through bequest or descent can present complex considerations during the dissolution of marriage proceedings within Illinois. Generally, property acquired by one party as a gift or through testamentary disposition is considered non-marital. An example includes funds received from a deceased relative’s estate by one spouse during the marriage.
The characterization of such assets is significant because only marital property is subject to division between the parties. Understanding the specific nuances of how these assets are treated is crucial for ensuring equitable outcomes in divorce settlements. Historical legal precedent in Illinois establishes that such assets, if kept separate and not commingled with marital funds, typically remain the separate property of the receiving spouse.