Somerset County High-Asset Divorce Lawyers
Top-Quality Legal Representation for Clients in Morris, Union, Middlesex & Essex Counties
High-asset divorce can prove more difficult than a traditional divorce due to the amount of assets involved. While both types of divorce cover the same issues, the stakes in a high-asset divorce are much higher, especially when it comes time to divide property and valuable assets. As a result, high-asset divorce cases can quickly turn contentious.
What Is a High-Asset Divorce?
High-asset divorces typically involve over $1 million in liquid assets.
These assets may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- High-value property
- Business shares
- Retirement accounts (401(k)s and traditional or Roth IRAs)
- Investment accounts, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and cash
- Patents, copyrights, and trademarks
- Marital home
- Vehicles
- Art collections, antiques, artwork, furniture, and other valuables
- Stock
- Restricted stock
- Stock options
- Nontraditional forms of compensation
Special Considerations for a High-Asset Divorce
There are special considerations that affect the way a high-asset case should be approached. It is important to ensure that you consult with a reputable lawyer who is experienced in this type of divorce.
Some considerations that will be brought up include, but are not limited to the following:
Complex asset division needs
One of the most significant legal issues that couples deal with in a high-asset divorce is the division of marital property. As New Jersey is an equitable distribution state, assets and property will be divided in a manner the court deems just and fair.
Tax consequences
When transferring or dividing property or substantial financial assets, there are significant tax implications involved. As such, it is beneficial to take this into consideration when negotiating a divorce agreement.
If you and your spouse entered into a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, you will need to adhere to it while forming your divorce agreement. The divorce process will get more complicated if one spouse attempts to challenge the validity of the agreement. In the event this happens, you will need to consult with your lawyer to prove the legality of your prenuptial or postnuptial agreement in court.
Hidden assets
It is possible that one spouse is more likely to hide certain assets in a high-asset divorce to keep them as separate property. If this happens, the other spouse will need to investigate and potentially hire a forensic accountant for further assistance. If you suspect your spouse has offshore accounts, is transferring money to a third party, or deferring compensation, seek legal assistance immediately.
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“Steven made me feel like someone "had my back". He is a consummate professional, has a responsive staff, and I would certainly use his legal services again should the need arise.”- Former Client
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“I have personally worked with Eric Lane on numerous occasions for transaction insight and due diligence purposes while reviewing new opportunities for my business. His service was always extremely professional, helpful and prompt. Eric was able to give me valuable knowledge while helping to negotiate leases for new potential locations, as well as finding out information about the local township and regulations that would affect my business decisions; making me aware of things I wasn't and helping me to better understand things that I wasn't very familiar with. Whether a new business starting out or an established company looking to grow, I would highly recommend his services. I look forward to continuing to seek Eric's opinion and professional services in the future.”- Michael L.
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“Dan was very understanding and helpful through the divorce process. He respected my suggestions and always gave very good advice throughout the whole process. He worked well with opposing counsel and just helped the whole process move smoothly. This was not a process I wanted, yet I was able to count on him for sound and very professional advice. There was never any pressure for me to do anything I did not want to do. I am thankful I chose Lane and Lane.”- Tom H.
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“Best law firm you could ever hope to have on your side!!! Dan Lane is my divorce attorney and he is the best lawyer ever! He has literally won every single battle for me!!! Every time I go into the office everyone is so friendly and amazing!!! Dan’s secretary Victoria is the sweetest person ever! She always keeps me on top of everything!! I couldn’t have found a better lawyer than Dan, not once has he let me down on my entire divorce. Dan truly cares about his clients and every single time I have a concern or worry he calls me or emails me and reassures me even if he’s not in the office!! I honestly wish Dan could be my lawyer for everything I ever need to go to court for because he is a winner and the very best!”- Brittany L.
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“I am a bit overdue with this review. Lane and Lane helped me through what seemed at the time to be one of the hardest points in my life. Mr. Steven Lane and his assistant Dana went above and beyond for me throughout my entire divorce from beginning to end. Mr. Lane was always available when I needed him and always made me feel like a priority. He by far exceeded my expectations and for that, I am truly grateful. At all times it was obvious that my and my children's best interest was what was most important to him and that you can not put a price tag on. Mr. Lane made a promise to me at the beginning of the process which was "we go to the dance together and we leave the dance together" meaning at no point would he leave me to fight this battle alone. As silly as it may sound, that has stuck with me since he said it and that was one of the most comforting things anyone has ever said to me. I highly recommend Lane and Lane LLC. They are a family run business that cares about family and that is hard to find nowadays. Thank you again, Mr. Lane.”- Jessica W.
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“If peace of mind is what you are looking for, I recommend Daniel.”- Brad
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“Divorce is a traumatic event, no matter how much both parties involved try to work through the process. Lane & Lane were a great sounding board for my concerns and needs. They listened and protected me from opposing counsel's comments and demands. I highly recommend Lane and Lane to represent you if this personal need arises. Pete Wright”- Pete W.
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“I hired Steve to represent me in my divorce. He is am amazing, knowledgeable lawyer and a good man. He's honest, upfront, caring, calming and never made me feel like just a client.”- Melissa
