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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“If you find yourself reading these reviews, you are clearly going through a tough time or helping someone who is. Going through a divorce can be devastating and it's far from easy. Eric Lane represented me for a number of issues over the course of over 18 months. His experience, demeanor, and thoughtful approach significantly helped make the best of an unfortunately difficult process. My short advice here is the process is what you make of it and Eric is a fantastic support to get you through it. Eric was responsive, fair, and transparent in all aspects. He took the time to understand what I wanted, and what my concerns were. I never felt rushed and always felt like he was fully vested in having a positive outcome. His advice was thoughtful, realistic, and I always felt like we had a game plan - which prepared me for what to expect each step of the way. I'm sure he has multiple clients at any given time, but with everything on his plate, I always felt like a priority. I would highly recommend anyone considering a divorce attorney to sit with Eric and get his opinion.”- Arpan S.
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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. They also have expertise where tax issues arise and personally care about their clients.”- Joan G.
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“I was very lucky to have Mr. Steven Lane guide me through my case, as the divorce was a very challenging life event for me. He had a great sense of humor to diffuse many stressful situations. His wisdom and calmness helped to settle the divorce case peacefully and efficiently. When negotiations got tough, he was always able to find common grounds for two parties to reach an agreement. More important to me, Mr. Steven Lane is so humble and friendly, he never appears as an arrogant lawyer in a fancy suit. On the contrary, as an Asian immigrant, I felt very much accepted and respected by him and his team. I've learned so much from him while working together on my divorce case. So I highly recommend him.”- Ching F.
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“Daniel Lane was very helpful and most of all listened to what I had to say. He took the time to see me and was always in communication. His office and staff are very professional and accommodating. Highly recommended.”- Giuseppe B.
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“Eric definitely had my best interests at heart.”- Austin
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“Eric was with me every step of the way and I felt that he had my best interests at heart.”- Aus
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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 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.
