The Differences of a High Net Asset Divorce

What makes the high net asset divorce different? In these divorces there are likely multiple assets and asset classes each with their own peculiar issues with respect to putting a value on them, their tax basis and taxability upon transfer, and in some instances, transferability is not even an option. Each of the potential issues has a resolution and a way to be dealt with. For instance retention of experts may be necessary to resolve issues of an assets value, analysis of assets divided in kind such as stock accounts should be done in a manner to equalize the tax basis in the accounts, and non-transferable assets can be awarded to one spouse outright or held as a fiduciary until some future event such as the exercise of stock options. A seasoned Los Angeles complex property division attorney is essential in these cases to coordinate with financial experts, forensic accountants, and tax advisors to ensure every asset class is properly valued, characterized, and divided in a manner that is both legally sound and financially optimal.

High-asset divorces also often involve complex compensation schemes set up by employers for key employees or established by a business owner. Understanding compensation plans is critical to constructing a fair and adequate resolution of a high net worth divorce. These compensation structures — which may include deferred compensation, restricted stock units, performance bonuses, and executive benefit packages — require the level of sophistication that only the best high net worth divorce lawyers in Los Angeles can bring to the table. In addition to understanding the financial complexities of high-asset divorce, experience with these types of cases is critical when choosing counsel to guide you in such a case. Complex spousal support calculations are also frequently at issue in high-net-worth divorces, as a spouse’s true income from compensation packages, business ownership, and investment returns must be carefully analyzed — a skilled Los Angeles spousal support attorney can ensure that support awards accurately reflect the full financial picture. To discuss your high-asset divorce with an experienced divorce attorney Los Angeles at the Reape-Rickett Law Firm, contact us or call (888) 851-1611 today.