Some states have a concept of common property. This indicates that all income and assets accumulated during a marriage are owned equally by both married partners. All assets and debts accumulated throughout the marriage are divided equally in the event of a divorce. Originally, New York was a common-law property state. In terms of property division, equitable distribution rules are now accepted. This indicates that only possessions amassed during the marriage are regarded as marital property. These will be distributed, while not equally, in a fashion that takes into account a more equitable division of property.