Division of Assets After Divorce in Vietnam: It’s Not Always 50–50
Recently, a lawyer from DEDICA Law Firm handled a post-divorce property division case in Vietnam. The couple, both in their 60s–70s, had lived together for over 30 years, co-owned a house, and raised one child. When they divorced, they didn’t immediately divide their property. In old age, that house became the center of a prolonged dispute.
The husband argued that the house had been bought using proceeds from the sale of a property he inherited from his parents before marriage. He presented a clear timeline, the amount of gold received, and supporting documents.
The wife claimed that she had made significant contributions — from survivor benefits, personal savings, her income, and efforts in acquiring and renovating the house. However, she had no concrete evidence to prove her claims.
In the end, the court ruled a 70–30 split in favor of the husband, as he was able to prove that he had used his separate property during the marriage to acquire the house. Although the wife had contributed effort, she lacked the legal basis to claim a larger share.
What does the law say?
According to Point b, Clause 2, Article 59 of the 2014 Law on Marriage and Family of Vietnam, common property upon divorce is divided "in principle equally, but taking into account each party’s contribution." Whoever contributes more and can prove it will receive a larger share.
The key takeaway is not about right or wrong, but about legal awareness:
– If you cannot prove your contribution, the law cannot protect what you believe is fair.
– Love, sacrifice, and effort are hard to quantify without documents.
– And especially: don’t wait until the marriage ends to think about what’s “yours and mine.”
The law cannot preserve love — but it can help reduce pain during separation, if you prepare early.
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