What is family patrimony?

1. The family’s residences, i.e. those used by the family during the marriage, whether owned by one or both of the spouses.
2. The “movable property” with which they are furnished or decorated.
3. The motor vehicles used for family travel (cars, boats, trailers, etc.), provided that they were bought and not merely rented
4. RRSPs accrued during the marriage and the pension plans.
5. Benefits accrued with the Régie des rentes du Québec.

Normally, this property would be shared equally between the parties, subject to certain exceptions that we could discuss with you. But be careful! That does not necessarily grant you ownership rights over this property if it is actually owned by your spouse. You would, however, have a right to claim (entitlement), i.e. a right to share in the value of the property.

Articles 414 to 426 of the Civil Code of Québec deal with family patrimony.