Divorce & Separation

Divorce is never easy. Emotions are raw, and the pain of losing a life partner can cloud an otherwise good judgment. On top of that, divorce laws are complicated, especially when children or property are involved.

Understanding Your State's Divorce Laws

Depending on the state, property acquired by either spouse during marriage can be divided as equitable distribution or as community property. In community property states, assets and debts accumulated during marriage are owned equally by both spouses and split 50/50. In equitable distribution states, assets are divided fairly but not necessarily equally, based on factors like each spouse's contribution and earning capacity.

Custody of children is full of nuances, but the main theme in most states remains "best interest of the child." Learn more about child custody arrangements and how they're determined. The state where marriage took place or the length of residence of the spouses in a certain state may also come into play when figuring out divorce mechanics. Jurisdiction matters - sometimes significantly.

High-asset divorces add complexity. When businesses, real estate holdings, retirement accounts, or international assets are involved, courts often order forensic accounting to ensure equitable division. Failing to properly value and divide these assets can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Divorce also often involves child support and spousal support (alimony) decisions that require careful financial analysis to ensure fairness and enforceability.