Experienced Representation For High-Asset Families
Property division is often one of the more complicated aspects of a divorce. Emotions can quickly escalate based on contradictory views on how mutual assets and debts were handled during the marriage and should be divided upon divorce.
When the stakes are high, enlist the Law Offices of John A. Guthrie to protect your rights and battle for a fair property division through the divorce process. The family law attorneys at our firm have a substantial background representing clients throughout Alameda County who have had significant and often complex investment portfolios.
Dividing Marital Community Property And Debt
Once the decision to divorce is made, a consultation with one of our high-asset divorce lawyers is the first step on the checklist. While normal bills will still need to be paid, it may make sense to close joint credit cards to ensure a soon-to-be-ex spouse does not increase your debt.
It is also important to begin itemizing all of your assets. If you are leaving the marital home, you may want to make copies of bank account and tax information. Our attorneys will advise when it might be necessary to bring in the help of a forensic accountant, actuary and appraiser to establish the value of your community property such as:
- Family-owned businesses
- Real estate property, including second homes and investment ventures
- Retirement funds, including stocks, 401(k) plans and pension plans
- Jewelry, collectible cars and antiques
We also work with forensic accountants to trace any hidden assets or debts and determine how your assets were handled during your marriage. For example, if your estranged spouse inherited assets before getting married, and then invested the funds into your joint retirement plan, we will advocate to help you obtain a fair share of the retirement assets.
Similarly, we will make sure you assume no more than a roughly equal share of the marital debt. Every situation is unique. We offer a detailed approach to understand your financial framework, so we can effectively secure your legal rights.
Obtain Valuable Legal Advice
When your financial future is at stake, you need an attorney who knows how to handle the complex issues that arise with varied investments. Our attorneys have been practicing family law in Alameda County since 1990, and have the experience.
To learn how we can assist through the process, please call our office at 925-271-4342. You can also reach us by sending a message online. We are available to meet with you at our Pleasanton or Danville offices.