Equitable division is not the process of dividing everything right down the middle, with each spouse getting half. Instead, it is the process of making sure there is equitable division of the assets. That means looking at the financial status of each spouse individually and what kind of separate property they have. It also usually includes alimony and earning capacity, along with the conduct of the spouses toward one another during marriage (such as abuse), and any wasteful conduct toward their shared assets (for example, a gambling problem). Debt and retirement planning are often taken into consideration, as well.