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 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 highly recommend hiring Daniel Lane to represent you with your legal matters. He handled my case with the utmost professionalism and sincerity. I found him to be highly attentive and knowledgeable to reach a positive resolution with my legal issue.”- Former Client
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“My husband and I used Dan as our real estate lawyer as a buyer and he was the best! Great follow up! He stayed on top of everything. Dan always communicated with us if he needed something from us or for any input we had in responding to the seller's lawyer. He was also very knowledgeable - most of the time I have no idea what was going on, but he was always patient enough to explain it to me. I also had the pleasure of meeting Steve - he put everyone in an easy mood when the title company was late to the closing. I would definitely use them again!”- Jennifer R.
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“I would recommend Lane and Lane in a heartbeat to anyone who needs counsel. They are honest, caring and will always be there when you need them.”- Carl
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“Very knowledgeable and always willing to go above and beyond. I really appreciate doing business with someone that knows how to do things right. Very good value for a great price. Highly recommended!”- Jean L.
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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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“Throughout the process, Dan constantly put my interests, goals, and objectives front and center.”- Jay K.
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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.
