The division of assets process becomes contentious in a great deal of divorces, particularly when the assets involved are significant or complex. Considering the fact that property distribution affects both your current financial situation and the security of your financial future, it is not surprising that this facet of the divorce process can lead to disagreements and difficulties. The stakes become increasingly high in cases involving complex property division, and these challenges are often a feature of high net worth divorces. As the complexity of the assets grows, so too does the necessity for a highly knowledgeable divorce attorney with specific experience in the realm of complex property distribution. Your team of complex property division lawyers can thoroughly protect and advocate for your interests during this time and ensure that you receive all of the assets that you deserve.
Complex Property Division Lawyers | Representing Clients in New Jersey
At Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, our New Jersey divorce attorneys utilize over 75 years of combined experience to reach favorable property settlements for our clients undergoing divorce. With a practice concentrated entirely on divorce and family law, we have the extensive knowledge and resources necessary to address the most complex issues facing our clients. For example, one of our founding partners, Attorney Paul H. Townsend, has been published in the seminal work Forensic Accounting in Matrimonial Divorce. Mr. Townsend and his fellow partners, Dominic A. Tomaio and Laurie L. Newark, are among the only 2 percent of attorneys who are recognized by the New Jersey Supreme Court as Certified in Matrimonial Law. Together, they lead a team of premier New Jersey divorce and family lawyers, each of whom is dedicated to providing personalized client service and unparalleled representation. For additional information and a free initial consultation with one of our talented New Jersey divorce lawyers, contact our offices in Morris County today at 973-840-8970.
Marital Property Settlement in New Jersey Divorce
The valuation of complex assets is one of the most contested areas of divorce. The diversity of the assets that may be involved underscores the intricacies of the valuations and allocations necessary to accurately and effectively execute this process. Some of the assets that we frequently see in cases of complex property division include:
- Closely held or family businesses
- Professional practices
- Real estate investments
- Highly compensated executives
- Assets that are owned jointly with other people
- Intellectual property such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks
- Assets held in trust or that have tax implications for early distribution
- Unique assets such as collectible cars and jewelry
- Stock options, restricted stock options, deferred income, bonuses, and executive compensation
- Separate property that has been commingled with marital property
- Separate property that includes marital property contributions
- Inheritances, gifts, and trusts
- Retirement assets
- Hidden assets
- Assets subject to a prenuptial agreement
Experts in Complex Property Division Cases
Valuation of complex marital property is often a battle of experts. Once an asset has been valued, New Jersey follows the law of equitable distribution. It is important to note that “equitable” does not mean “equal,” it simply means fair. What is fair is always subject to a significant amount of interpretation, depending on the nature of the asset, the duration of the marriage, the extent to which either party was involved in obtaining or maintaining the asset, and many other factors. In order to ensure the most accurate and fair property division, we employ leading experts in fields such as accounting, financial analysis, real estate, and property appraisal. When necessary, we also call upon private investigators who are tasked with uncovering suspected hidden assets.
Contact Our Morris County NJ Divorce Attorneys Today
Overall, every divorce situation is unique. Your assets and specific circumstances will require thorough discussion and evaluation; however, finding the initial answers to your questions is the first step toward achieving a desirable outcome. Our New Jersey divorce attorneys provide cost-free initial consultations and will be happy to provide you with the answers you need to move forward. Contact our offices in Whippany, New Jersey, or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
