A more thorough explanation:

Equitable distribution is a legal principle that guides how property is divided between spouses during a divorce. It aims to achieve a fair distribution of marital property based on a set of factors or guidelines established by state law. This is different from an equal division of property, which is used in community property states.

For example, in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, some factors that a court may consider when dividing property include the length of the marriage, the value of the property, each spouse's contribution to the property, their respective incomes or earning capacities, and their economic circumstances after the divorce. In some states, such as South Carolina, marital misconduct like adultery may also be considered if it contributed to the end of the marriage or affected the parties' financial situations.

Overall, equitable distribution seeks to ensure that both spouses receive a fair share of the marital property, taking into account their individual contributions and needs.