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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“Lane & Lane did a great job representing me in my divorce. Dan Lane is the best - I highly recommend him!”- Beth Ann L.
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“Dan and his team were always there to answer any of my questions as well as always keeping me informed as to what is going on.”- Scott D.
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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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“As a local mediator/attorney, I have worked with Lane and Lane for years and send them clients. They are always prepared, know their files and respond to emails and letters as needed. Their staff is well trained, always friendly and easy to work with. They can handle even complex and difficult cases.”- Joan G.
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“I have been in a custody battle since my daughter was 3 years old. Multiple attorneys and honestly no one has been more competent as Steven Lane. He is always in contact and has been so knowledgeable. He honestly put me at peace in a very difficult time. He is very versed in his profession and honestly I wish I had met him years prior, I actually started to get proper justice when I hired him. He is understanding and caring as well as his staff has phenomenal character. I couldn't recommend this attorney enough.”- Lysette
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“Quick, knowledgeable, professional, and very responsive to questions and inquiries. A positive experience from reception-to-attorney. I would request legal services from Lane & Lane again as well as recommend them to others.”- Orlando H.
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“Excellent Experience. Daniel Lane was very helpful and readily available. He was able to explain everything in detail and always put us at ease. He made us feel like family and handled our case as if it was his own personal family matter. Awesome lawyer. Highly recommended.”- Kaajal R.
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“Lane and Lane LLC is highly professional and stands out from the rest! Not only are they reliable, so your mind is at ease that they will get the job done, but they are personable and have their client's best interest at heart. Lane & Lane truly has their client's backs, and we are so grateful to them.”- Antonella B.