Division of marital property is often a contested issue in divorce. The more property a couple has to divide, and the more complex those assets are, the more challenging it can be. High asset divorces are more likely to go to trial, making the divorce process longer, more expensive, and more stressful for everyone.

My focus is on making life’s difficult legal transitions easier for my clients, so I refer to myself as a life changes attorney rather than a high-asset divorce attorney. That said, I have helped many couples navigate the unique challenges of high-asset divorce. When possible, it is usually better for couples to reach an agreement regarding equitable distribution and other issues in a divorce, and I offer my clients a variety of dispute resolution options for doing so.

In some cases, however, the only way to resolve issues in a high net worth divorce is through a trial. Unlike many attorneys who focus exclusively on family law, I am also a seasoned litigator who is capable of resolving complex property and support issues at trial. With so much on the line, it’s important to have a complex divorce lawyer in your corner.

What is Considered a High-Asset Divorce?

There is no precise dollar threshold that defines a high asset divorce, but these complex divorces often include one or more of the following:

  • Over $1,000,000 in liquid assets
  • Significant retirement accounts, including 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions
  • Multiple real estate holdings, including vacation properties and rental properties
  • Ownership of a business or professional practice, which may involve complex valuation issues
  • Complex investment portfolios
  • Luxury items such as art collections, jewelry, antiques and collectibles, vehicles, and yachts, some of which may be unique and require appraisal
  • Intellectual property such as patents, trademarks, copyrights, licenses, and royalties
  • Assets located outside the United States

The assets involved in a high net worth divorce are often not only significant in amount, but also have challenging tax and valuation issues involved. If you are wondering whether your divorce would be considered a high-asset divorce, it’s worth working with an attorney who has a lot of experience handling these challenging matters.

Work with an Experienced Complex Divorce Lawyer

High net worth and complex assets have an impact on more than just property division in a divorce. Significant assets also affect child support and alimony. While child support is usually determined by a guideline formula, when parental income exceeds the formula amounts the court has discretion to determine support.

I have been helping clients successfully resolve the many issues involved in high-asset divorce for over 20 years. With the complex issues involved and the financial interests at stake, high net worth divorces have the potential for escalation and conflict.

I will work with you to clarify issues and options and minimize unnecessary conflict in your divorce whenever possible, but my commitment to protecting your interests means that I will not shrink from a trial if litigation is in your best interest.

To learn more about my experience and approach to Maryland high net worth divorce cases, check out my blog or contact me to schedule a consultation.