One's rights with respect to property are often determined three times in the eyes of a family court.  

I.    Temporary Orders:  At the temporary orders phase of a suit for divorce the parties can agree or the court can order temporary use and control of property and temporary payment of bills often without regard to ultimate ownership or responsibility.

II.   Final Orders:  The final decree of divorce will award final ownership of community property and debt to each spouse and confirm the separate property of a spouse. 

III.  Agreements Affecting Property:  Several types of contracts signed before and during a marriage can affect ownership and characterization of property between the spouses.  

Please follow the links above to read more about each.