
Melanie Bean, Partner
While almost all divorces require equitable division of property and assets, stakes are naturally higher in high asset and net worth divorces where couples have amassed major property holdings, co-own businesses, and accrued large amounts of personal property and money. While contracts such a pre- and post-nuptials can mitigate some of the complexities of a high asset divorce, it is imperative that you retain an aggressive attorney who has experience with high value divorces and the particular challenges they hold.
What Will My Attorney Do?
I will talk to you about your situation and learn the particulars of your marriage, the assets involved in the marriage, and what is on the table in your potential settlement. Some items we typically look at are:
- Complex property division
- Business valuations
- Spousal maintenance claims (alimony)
- Complex child support matters
- Real estate valuations and division
- Hidden assets
- Commingling of marital and nonmarital assets
- Challenges to prenuptial agreements
High net worth divorces demand forensic financial disclosures and we know what documents to ask for including bank statements, deeds, declarations of net worth, corporate financial statements, tax returns and investment records. Additionally, we will review and incorporate any pre-existing agreements such as pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreements, trusts, and business contracts.
How Do Courts Decide on Alimony?
High value divorces can result in alimony being awarded for one spouse. Alimony is completely separate from child support and can be awarded on a permanent basis or on a temporary or “rehabilitative” basis. Many factors go into awarding alimony, such as:
- health concerns
- education levels
- length of marriage
- income of each party
- age of each spouse, and
- standard of living during the marriage.
Hire An Attorney Experienced In High Value Divorces

