Sussex County High Net Worth Divorce Lawyers

Newton law firm simplifies the New Jersey divorce process for high-asset clients

Divorce is often complicated, and the legal process can be even more difficult when substantial assets are at stake. At Hollander, Strelzik, Pasculli, Vandenberg, Hontz & Associates LLC, our Sussex County high net worth divorce lawyers skillfully represent New Jersey residents as they pursue favorable terms relating to property division, spousal support and parenting arrangements. Our law firm serves high-asset individuals throughout North Jersey from offices in Newton and Succasunna.  

What is a high net worth divorce? 

Though no official definition exists, a high net worth divorce is often described as a breakup in which the marital property is valued at $1 million or more. Financially successful couples frequently engage in contentious negotiations over the disposition of assets such as investment accounts, businesses, vacation homes, expensive automobiles, valuable artwork, jewelry and other items. Our law firm will develop a strategy aimed at achieving a fair resolution where you retain ownership of the assets that are most important to you. 

Dividing assets in a high net worth divorce

Many factors might be considered when dividing assets in a high net worth divorce. The marital estate could include a business operated by one spouse or an asset that has passed through one spouse’s family for generations. Families possessing substantial wealth frequently utilize trusts, so there might be questions about how funds within the trust, or distributions from it, are allocated. Questions over commingling of assets that were once considered separate property might also require insight from a seasoned contested divorce lawyer. We can help you assess what is separate and marital property and work to secure a favorable settlement. If this is not possible our firm will advocate for an appropriate decision under New Jersey’s equitable distribution standard.  

Mistakes to avoid in a high net worth divorce 

Even accomplished individuals sometimes make mistakes amidst the complexities and emotions of a divorce. We steer clients away from the following common missteps:

• Misreporting assets — Both you and your spouse must fully disclose all assets and debts. This can be challenging for people with diverse holdings. We thoroughly review relevant records to provide full, accurate information, and initiate investigations when a client suspects their spouse is hiding something. 
• Accepting improper valuations — When assets are not accurately valued it can lead to unfair property dispositions. By working with forensic accountants, professional appraisers and other experts, our firm helps spouses negotiate from a position of strength and handles disputes that arise about asset value.  
• Overlooking tax consequences — During the divorce process, there might be capital gains from the sale of a vacation home or taxes that are owed when stocks are liquidated to split the proceeds. Our attorneys will make sure that you understand the implications of any property division arrangement. 

An experienced Sussex County family lawyer from our firm will see that these and other costly mistakes are avoided during your high net worth divorce.

Child custody and support issues affecting high net worth Sussex and Morris County families 

All custody determinations are based on what is in the best interests of the children, but families that are comfortable financially often have many more details to address when discussing custody, visitation and child support. There could be questions about scheduling extended vacations and allocating payment responsibility for private education and expensive extracurricular activities. If a parent has more than one home, concerns could exist about sons and daughters maintaining consistency at school and with friendships. Our personalized approach gives parents the ability to address the unique issues in their case so they can create a healthy environment for their children and themselves. 

Impact of a prenuptial agreement in a high-asset divorce 

Many individuals who enter a marriage owning substantial assets put prenuptial agreements in place to protect their businesses, real estate and other valuable assets. In one of these documents, parties can define specific items as separate assets, excluding them from property division in the event of a divorce. They can also set forth terms regarding alimony payments. If your marriage is ending and you have a prenuptial agreement in place, we will review the document, advise you regarding its validity and take action to enforce or challenge the prenup based on your situation and needs. 

Contact a skillful New Jersey attorney to discuss your high-asset divorce

At Hollander, Strelzik, Pasculli, Vandenberg, Hontz & Associates LLC, our North Jersey lawyers help Sussex and Morris County clients handle the complexities associated with a high net worth divorce. Schedule a free consultation by calling 973-737-1023 or contacting us online.