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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“Thank you so much Steve Lane and Lane & Lane firm for the outstanding representation you have given me! I was very impressed with how knowledgeable Steve is and how welcoming and friendly he and his staff is.”- Anastasios
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“I wouldn't trust anyone else to help guide me through family law. Not only are they extremely knowledgeable about divorce and other family matters, but they have solid finance and accounting backgrounds as well. Support on the financials is huge. They are true specialists and it shows compared to other firms that cover many areas of law.”- Lawrence 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
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“I have used Lane & Lane and I was very happy with the way they handle my case. Very professional. I would recommend Lane & Lane to anybody that needs a good divorce lawyer.”- Emilio 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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“Lane and Lane is a wonderful family-owned law firm. From the moment I stepped into the office, I felt at ease. Dan Lane is knowledgeable, personable and knows how to get the job done. Dan Lane won my FRO case and I finally feel at peace. Thank you, Lane & Lane, for your outstanding service.”- Robin G.
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“Dan and his staff did a great job handling my divorce. Due to COVID, my previous attorney bailed on me and Dan was able to take over my case and bring it to closure. He was very professional and supportive throughout the entire process. Dan always responds promptly and I highly recommend him and his staff.”- Former Client
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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.
