A more thorough explanation:

Definition: Characterization refers to the process of classifying, qualifying, and interpreting laws that apply to a particular case. It is used in conflict of laws and family law.

In a conflict-of-laws situation, a court must determine the nature of the problem presented to it for solution. For example, if the problem relates to torts, contracts, property, or some other field, the court must refer to the appropriate law. This process is called characterization, classification, qualification, or interpretation.

For instance, if a person is injured in a car accident in one state but lives in another state, the court must determine which state's laws apply to the case. The court must first characterize the problem as a tort and then apply the appropriate choice-of-law rule to the case.

In family law, characterization refers to the process of classifying property accumulated by spouses as either separate or marital property (or community property). For example, if a couple gets divorced, the court must determine which property belongs to each spouse. The court must first characterize the property as separate or marital property and then divide it accordingly.

For instance, if a couple buys a house during their marriage, the court must characterize the house as marital property. However, if one spouse inherits a house from their parents, the court must characterize the house as separate property.

These examples illustrate how characterization is used to determine which laws apply to a particular case and how property should be classified in family law.