What happens to joint property after divorce
My ex-wife put a divorce petition seeking divorce and since I did not object to it, the divorce process was relatively simple. We have been legally separated since 2012.
Before separation in 2012 we had purchased some real estate properties. Those properties were registered on both of our names.
While ex-wife was seeking divorce, there was no mention of properties or children in the petition. She was seeking divorce only. So divorce was granted by the court without any mention of the properties or children. We had two children together and both of then stay with their mother currently.
Since there was no intention of divorce before 2012, even though I was the majority earner of income, the properties were registered on both of our names. Now my question is, Does my ex-wife have any rights on the properties that were bought before separation. Or Do I have to part with the properties that were bought earlier?
I have bought the properties with my hard earned money. I have proof of my tax returns to show that they have been bought with my hard earned money. So I don't want to part with them as it was ex-wife who had her own plans and wanted separation.
I would appreciate if legal experts answer this question. Thanks in advance.