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David and Susan are married and own their primary residence in Connecticut as tenants by the entirety. They later divorce. Which of the following best describes the effect of the divorce on their ownership?

Correct Answer

B) The tenancy by the entirety automatically converts to a tenancy in common upon divorce

Under Connecticut law, tenancy by the entirety requires the parties to be legally married. When a couple divorces, the marital unity that supports the tenancy by the entirety is destroyed. As a result, the ownership automatically converts to a tenancy in common, giving each former spouse an undivided half interest that they can independently sell, mortgage, or devise. The divorce decree may further address how the property is divided.

Answer Options
A
The tenancy by the entirety automatically converts to a joint tenancy upon divorce
B
The tenancy by the entirety automatically converts to a tenancy in common upon divorce
C
The tenancy by the entirety remains unchanged until the property is sold
D
The tenancy by the entirety is terminated and title vests solely in the spouse awarded the home by the court

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

tenancy_by_entiretydivorcetenancy_in_commonownership_conversion

Related Concepts

Tenancy by the entirety is a form of co-ownership available only to married couples that includes the right of survivorship and protection from individual creditors. Neither spouse can unilaterally sell or encumber the property.

Tenancy in common is a form of co-ownership in which two or more persons hold separate, undivided interests in property without the right of survivorship. Each owner can hold unequal shares and can independently transfer their interest.

A freehold estate conveys ownership rights, while a leasehold estate grants the right to possess and use property for a specific period without ownership.

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