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Ending a marriage is never easy, especially when you must deal with settling significant assets or complicated family dynamics. If you are looking to get divorced in Essex County, seeking a Montclair complex divorce lawyer is the first step toward managing a complex dispute.
The team at The Montanari Law Group is led by Michael J. Montanari, Esq., a Montclair family law attorney with more than two decades of experience helping individuals and their loved ones get through family law cases. We aim to help every family find a way forward through their situations, but we do so with recognition of the fact that no two families are exactly alike.
Our history of handling intricate asset valuations means we are well-equipped to manage even the most challenging financial landscapes. We help clients explore all economic avenues that are relevant to their circumstances as they move to their next chapter, because we’re dedicated to supporting families’ futures.
Divorces in New Jersey occur at a rate of 11.0 per 1,000 married women. In regard to married women, the divorce rates have increased for those over age 50, with 36% of modern divorces now involving adults in this age group.
These divorces bring about the specific challenges of factoring in retirement funds and healthcare, which requires both parties to dive into their financial histories to protect their long-term stability.
New Jersey utilizes an equitable distribution model, which means that even marital property will be divided fairly, but fairly doesn’t necessarily mean equally. Marital property in a complex divorce can include businesses, cryptocurrency, and real estate holdings.
In many complex divorce cases throughout Montclair and the surrounding Essex County area, one of the most challenging hurdles is the valuation of a closely held business or a professional practice. Whether you own a medical practice, a boutique firm, or a tech startup, New Jersey law requires a precise determination of the fair value of the entity.
This process often involves forensic accountants who analyze cash flows, goodwill, and tangible assets to create an accurate appraisal.
Suppose you and your former spouse are business owners. During a divorce case being heard at the Montclair Township Municipal Court on Bloomfield Avenue, the court would have to determine what portion of the business was considered marital property and what was looked at as separate property.
If, during the marriage, a business was started, both spouses may be entitled to a portion of its value, even if only one was responsible for the day-to-day operations. At The Montanari Law Group, our team works closely with financial professionals to protect your legacy while making sure the final distribution of assets is equitable and sound under complex divorce laws.
When there is a high degree of conflict or substantial wealth at stake, standard legal templates are rarely enough. When you decide to hire a complex divorce lawyer, you’re engaging a professional who understands how to peel back the layers of a complicated financial portfolio.
An experienced Montclair complex divorce attorney prepares every case as if it will be litigated, which often gives it the leverage needed to gain a favorable settlement out of court. This proactive measure is necessary when dealing with uncooperative spouses or hidden accounts.
By focusing on the unique details of your situation, we aim to resolve disputes efficiently while minimizing the emotional toll on your family.
You need an attorney for a complex divorce because they are trained in law and authorized to represent you in court when you experience circumstances pertaining to the law. A Montclair divorce attorney who’s well-versed in your state’s family court system can effectively advocate for you and handle intricate legal procedures that a standard lawyer may not be permitted to handle.
If you can’t pay for a divorce lawyer, you have options you can explore, such as limited-scope representation or mediation. If your spouse earns more money than you do, the court may order them to pay for your legal fees. In a consultation with your lawyer, you can discuss your financial situation with them and explore potential solutions and fee structures that might work for your specific needs and goals.
The success of your divorce settlement starts with preparing your case with your attorney. Hiring a lawyer who can build a solid case involves staying organized, honest, and focused by collecting financial documents early, being open with your attorney, and thinking about your long-term future rather than letting temporary emotions take over. This organized approach allows you to move forward and get a positive result for everyone involved.
Which spouse takes a bigger financial hit in a divorce depends on the circumstances of each case. Still, you and your former spouse will feel a change in your finances because you’ll be splitting one household’s income for two separate lives. The person who earned less or stayed home to act as a caregiver often sees a bigger drop in their daily standard of living, while the higher earner may face long-term costs because of spousal support or alimony payments.
Handling a difficult divorce takes more than just knowing the law. It takes a partner who understands how much is on the line for you. The team at The Montanari Law Group has the knowledge and experience you can count on when you need it the most. Divorce is complicated. It often starts amicably with both parties wanting to move forward, only to turn contentious with the needs and wants of both sides clashing. Get the help you deserve.
If you are ready to hire a complex divorce lawyer who will put your needs first and guide you through every step, reach out to our office.
“Michael Montanari was a great lawyer to represent my case and I’m grateful I found him through reviews like these. He’s extremely helpful and knowledgable and it was a pleasure having him represent my case and win. Highly recommend.” – Juan Alvarez
“Michael is knowledgeable, helpful, proactive, and an expert in his field. I had a very specific situation that he was able to expertly navigate and guide me through for the best possible result. I received exactly the outcome I was hoping for and it’s all thanks to the careful guidance and support of Michael and his team. Thank you again Michael!” – Aidan McGourty
“Jayna Patel was a pleasure to work with. Knowing how knowledgeable and experienced she was put me at ease during a very challenging time. She made the process easy and stress free. I would recommend her services to anyone in need of a family lawyer.” – Leyla
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