In Re the Marriage of Lawson

Opinion

MERRILL, J.

In this case we decide whether the postdissolution employment separation allowance paid to a former spouse should be characterized as community or separate property.

I

Neil and Priscilla Lawson (Husband and Wife) were married on July 1, 1960, and separated June 11, 1985. Judgment of dissolution was entered on July 29, 1986. Husband’s employment with Shell Oil Company commenced in 1958, two years before his marriage, and continued until January 1, 1987. Pursuant to a stipulated order, Wife’s proportional community property interest in Husband’s pension benefits was awarded to…