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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“Good, family-owned law firm. My wife and I didn't know much about wills, but knew we needed a plan to handle our assets and, most importantly, ensure our children were cared for if anything ever happened to us. As parents themselves, they understood our concerns and guided us through the documents and subsequent decisions we needed to make. In the end, we are relieved to have these official documents and are confident they will serve their purpose should they ever be needed.”- Brad C.
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“Great! He always communicated with me or had somebody contact me from his office. He went to court on my behalf and won! I highly recommend the Law Offices of Lane & Lane, LLC.”- Amber M.
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“If peace of mind is what you are looking for, I recommend Daniel.”- Brad
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“He was very knowledgeable, trustworthy, and informative lawyer, during the whole process. Always kept me informed of the process and how things would work, any questions I had he was always there to listen and get me an answer for anything I had a concern with, I would totally recommend him and the firm to anyone.”- Michele
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“Eric took the time to listen to my concerns and helped me to make informed decisions based on my situation.”- ZP
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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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“Daniel Lane helped me execute my divorce after an independent mediation. He was very professional, easy to deal with and sensitive to the procedure. That was the most unexpected and pleasantly surprising part of our relationship during the process. During his consultations, he dealt with me as a person first and foremost, not just a client on a retainer. I highly recommend him and his practice.”- Joe P.
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“Professional and outstanding attorneys. Eric Lane provided exceptional service handling all my personal legal issues.”- Walter R.
