Courts of Equity

See Equity; Courts of Equity

Equity is a body of law that concerns itself more with fairness than with the strict, and sometimes harsh, application of common law.

Equity is a body of law that concerns itself more with fairness than with the strict and sometimes harsh,application of common law. Historically, there were separate "courts of equity," but today, most courts have "equity jurisdiction," i.e., they can apply "equitable principles" to cases, including divorce. One commentator called these courts "anti-law" courts because they were able to circumvent unfair laws. But do not expect your judge to ignore statutes and established common law.