Navigating a divorce, no matter the circumstances, is a difficult and emotionally challenging task. Couple it, however, with a number of highly valued assets, and the complexities of the situation only increase. Dividing significant wealth can not only be mathematically difficult, but it can also add to the tension and disputes that arise between the divorcing couple. In these cases, having the legal support and guidance of a Montclair high asset divorce lawyer is crucial.
The Montanari Law Group has been assisting clients with their divorce cases for over 20 years. We know how challenging any marriage dissolution can be, especially ones paired with intricate financial portfolios. We can offer you comprehensive counsel and representation that you can rely on. Let us handle the legalities of looking over your finances. We can find the right way to protect the assets you have worked so hard to obtain over the years.
Defining a Montclair High Asset Divorce
Many people may wonder what makes a high asset divorce any different from a regular divorce case. The answer lies in the money or assets that are shared between the couple. In Montclair, where the average median income of any household is $166,765, high asset divorce cases typically occur when the couple owns assets that exceed $1 million. These situations require the skill of attorneys who are experienced in financial valuations and equitable distribution.
Aside from the amount of money or assets often involved in these cases, other factors can distinguish a high asset divorce from a normal marriage dissolution case. These can include the following:
- Cost of divorce. In a high asset divorce case, the costs are usually much higher than those associated with a more standard divorce, as these cases often involve a large number of assets, possible business ownership, and several other financial considerations, not to mention the fees that can come with the necessary accountants, lawyers, and appraisers.
- Length of divorce. Typically, a high asset divorce will take much longer than a more normal divorce when settling the divorce itself. The process of locating, evaluating, and correctly calculating the value of the assets also prolongs the timeframe. These divorces are also typically highly contentious, given all that is at stake, and negotiations can take several months to years, especially if a couple refuses to find areas of compromise.
- Alternative proceedings. While any divorce can be processed through alternative routes, those involving significant assets can greatly benefit from more private and confidential options. One of these options might include mediation, which can keep the proceedings private and out of the courtroom. Mediation can also prove to be a less expensive and quicker way to seek a divorce.
- Tax effects. When a divorce involves a number of valuable assets, the tax implications involved are often much higher and more considerable than those in a more standard divorce. Hiring an accountant to work alongside your lawyer might prove essential.
- Asset division. At its core, what sets a high asset divorce case apart from other cases are the assets involved in the divorce. New Jersey operates as an equitable distribution state, so all shared marital assets will be divided between the couple in a manner deemed fair, though not always 50/50. This can make a high asset divorce case more combative and take a much longer amount of time.
Several assets can be included in a high asset divorce. These include:
- Boats or collector vehicles
- Fine artwork
- Family heirlooms
- International or domestic bank accounts
- Businesses
- Offshore investments
- Trust funds
- Stocks
- Real estate holdings beyond the primary marital residence
If you are involved in a high asset divorce, the team at The Montanari Law Group can manage all the intricate aspects of your case.
How The Montanari Law Group Can Help
New Jersey sees a divorce rate of roughly 2.3 per every 1,000 residents. Working with a divorce lawyer is crucial in these cases, especially in those that involve highly valued assets or properties. At The Montanari Law Group, we have extensive experience in managing all the legal complexities that come with large estates, numerous assets, and incredible wealth. We can handle your divorce properly and fairly with your interests in mind.
Our skilled Montclair high asset divorce lawyers can assist you in the following ways:
- Identify and uncover all marital assets and property.
- Work alongside accountants and appraisers to assign value to these assets in a correct manner.
- File all the necessary documents within the correct deadlines.
- Manage certain financial issues involved in your case, such as any interests you may have in a business.
- Assess any necessary spousal or child support.
- Work to negotiate a settlement outside the courtroom.
- Identify any helpful tax strategies to mitigate tax implications.
Spousal Support in a Montclair High Asset Divorce
For many couples involved in a high asset divorce in Montclair, questions involving spousal support or maintenance are common. Maintaining your marital lifestyle is an essential factor during a high asset divorce. The courts will assess that standard of living to decide upon the correct amount of support to award, based on several factors, including:
- The length of the marriage. Typically, in cases where the couple has been married longer, the spousal support awarded will be higher.
- The lifestyle of the couple. The standard of living seen in the marriage will determine the amount of spousal support awarded. This can involve the home environment, the area in which the couple lived, and spending habits.
- Income. The courts will consider each of the spouse’s income and their potential ability to earn money following the divorce.
Speak With a Trusted Divorce Lawyer Today
If you have any questions regarding your Montclair divorce involving highly valued assets, the team at The Montanari Law Group can provide counsel and representation. Contact our offices today to schedule your initial consultation with our team and learn more about our legal services.
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