Divorce doesn't just end a marriage; it also demands that all of the property from that marriage be divided between to the two parties. Though there are times when a straight 50/50 split occurs, a majority of couples will have to consider an equitable distribution in divorce proceedings. This is a way of ensuring that both parties have an even financial status once the divorce is finalized. For example, if a couple has a home and large financial assets, simply splitting these between them may not leave both parties in an evenly matched financial scenario. This means that for an equitable distribution divorce the judge and attorneys will formulate a plan for balancing the wealth or property evenly. This requires them to look at the earning power of both parties, how much labor and effort they contributed in acquiring the property, the length of their marriage and much more.