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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“Dan & his staff are professional, courteous & knowledgeable. Dan returned my phone calls & emails in a timely manner & made me feel like I was his most important client. He went above & beyond for me. I highly recommend Lane & Lane.”- Jim 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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“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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“Eric Lane and his team were very professional and helpful. During our first conversation, he took the time to help me get to know the firm and confirm that they could help me. I went in having no idea what to do and he handled all of my concerns. He made sure that I got everything I needed or was entitled to and that I understood everything that was happening. He was very effective in getting my case settled and supported me every step of the way. I highly recommend Lane & Lane for their excellent service.”- April M.
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“Steve Lane has many years of experience in all areas of family and matrimonial law and that is why I chose him to be my attorney.”- Alice G.
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“I can't say enough positive things about this firm. I dealt primarily with Eric Lane and he was nothing short of a "consummate professional". He was there for me at every turn in my case, ready to provide whatever support was needed by me. Not only was he able to deliver a satisfactory result in my situation, but he legitimately exceeded expectations. I don't hope to have to require legal representation again anytime soon, but if I do there is no doubt that I will be turning to Eric and company at Lane & Lane.”- Christian P.
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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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“Daniel got my domestic violence case dismissed. He is very knowledgeable and professional, I would recommend him for all your legal matters.”- Jose S.
