Rockville, Maryland High Asset Divorce Lawyers

Skilled Attorneys Representing Clients in High Asset Divorces in Rockville

High income couples going through divorce may have to deal with another layer of complexity during legal proceedings. Accounting for all of the assets and making sure that they are properly valued can take time. Trying to rush through this process without careful planning could result in significant losses, which is why it is important to have a knowledgeable Rockville divorce lawyer at your side.

At Salvado Law Offices, we can provide you with legal advice and strong representation to help you through your high asset divorce. Our firm will look out for your best interests from the beginning of your case to the end, whether your divorce ends in litigation or negotiations for a settlement.

How Are Businesses Divided in Maryland Divorces?

A business may be one of the most valuable assets involved in your divorce. Depending on your unique circumstances, it may not have to be divided. A business could be considered separate property if:

• It was established before you were married
• You received it through an inheritance
• It was specifically excluded as separate property through a marital agreement

That being said, do not assume that your business is safe from division based on when it was established or if it was given through an inheritance. If your business increased in value over the course of the marriage, that increase in value could be treated as a marital asset. The business could also end up becoming marital property if it is commingled with marital funds.

If a business is determined to be marital property, it will have to be valued appropriately. To get an accurate estimate, a financial professional may consider the recent sales of similar businesses, the fair market value of all of its assets and liabilities, or the expected income potential.

Once a marital business has been valued, the judge can divide it in court according to the principle of equitable distribution. This accounts for what is fair to both spouses based on a number of different factors, like the earning potential of each spouse and how long the marriage lasted.

Enforcing a Marital Agreement in a High Net Worth Divorce

Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are often used to protect valuable properties in high asset divorces, like retirement accounts, inheritances, or real estate. They are also often used to allocate debts so that there is no confusion about any financial obligations.

There are some grounds upon which a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement could be challenged. For example, if the agreement is somehow fraudulent or if it was signed under duress by one party, its validity could come into question. The burden of proof is on the objecting party to show why the marital agreement should not be enforced.

Can I Get Alimony in a High Asset Divorce?

Alimony can either be awarded by a judge or included in a settlement. When you petition a judge for an alimony award, the judge will review your situation before making a final decision. If you became accustomed to a high standard of living during the marriage, the judge could consider awarding alimony to ease the transition into single life. Alimony awards can be short-term or long-term, depending on what the judge deems fair and equitable to all parties.

At Salvado Law Offices, we are here to uphold your parental rights while advocating for a healthy solution for your child's upbringing.