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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“I would highly recommend relying on Daniel should you need his service.”- Eric
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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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“Dan's patience and understanding allowed me to put trust in someone at a time when that was most difficult for me.”- Dominic
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“Upon meeting Steven Lane, he saw me right away and I could tell he was the lawyer I wanted to work with. He was very professional and personable. He kept in constant communication, even on weekends when I was panicking about an issue.”- Joseph O.
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“Professional and outstanding attorneys. Eric Lane provided exceptional service handling all my personal legal issues.”- Walter R.
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“Lane & Lane have been a huge help for our business. They've helped us navigate federal regulations, state regulations, buyout agreements, and corporate structure updates. They're accessible and timely, highly recommend.”- Colby J.
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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 worked with Steven Lane and personally he is like family now. An amazing attorney I worked with him two years ago and haven’t stopped. He is emotionally invested but also emotionally removed enough to tell you what he thinks would be better. I have called him at very inconvenient hours in distress and he has been responsive and takes immediate action. Grateful for him & he also has an amazing team very polite and courteous.”- Lysette P.
