The case “Baccanti v. Morton” involves a divorce proceeding where the division of marital assets was contested, particularly focusing on the inclusion of unvested stock options. The Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts addressed whether these unvested stock options could be considered part of the marital estate. The court concluded that unvested stock options are indeed assets that may be included in the marital estate, emphasizing that the division of assets in a divorce should recognize both spouses’ contributions to the acquisition and maintenance of assets during the marriage. The court outlined that the trial judge has the discretion to decide whether an asset should be included in the marital estate, considering the reasons for which the stock options were granted, such as for past, present, or future services. The decision underscores the principle that marriage is a partnership, and both parties should be compensated for their contributions, regardless of traditional concepts of title or property.