Marital assets refer to the property and financial resources acquired by a couple during their marriage. This can include real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, and personal belongings. Generally, these assets are considered joint property, meaning both partners have equal rights to them, regardless of who earned or purchased them. In the event of a divorce, marital assets are typically divided between the spouses. The division process can vary by jurisdiction, with some places following community property laws, where assets are split equally, while others use equitable distribution principles, which consider various factors to achieve a fair division.