The Experience You Need When Dividing Complex Assets In Divorce
On the surface, dividing property and finances may seem fairly straightforward. Sometimes it is. But in many cases, clients find that their marital estate is more complex than they thought. If done without the guidance of an experienced family law attorney, you could end up losing assets that are especially important to you or getting less than your fair share of the marital estate.
I’m attorney Laura Greco Naylor. When you hire Greco Law, PLLC, you’ll have the benefit of my 25 years of experience in the legal industry. I am well-versed in Massachusetts property division, and I can help you protect what’s most important to you – personally and professionally.
What It Means To Divide Assets Equitably
Like most states, Massachusetts follows the equitable distribution model. In divorce, courts require marital assets to be divided equitably between spouses, which isn’t always the same as equally. Courts can award a greater share to one spouse based on a variety of considerations, including each spouse’s age/health, obligations and needs, income sources and similar factors.
As a general rule, assets acquired prior to marriage by either spouse are considered separate (and therefore, not subject to division). Assets acquired during the marriage or appreciating in value during the marriage are considered marital and can be divided (unless exceptions are made).
Focusing On What Is Most Important To You
If you own a small business or professional practice, chances are good that your spouse would be entitled to a portion of that business/practice, even if he or she plays no role in daily operations. I can help you accurately value the business, determine your spouse’s share of it and negotiate other assets of equal value to ensure that you receive full ownership of it. I can do the same for other assets that are important to you and may be difficult or impossible to divide, including:
- The marital residence
- Any other real estate
- A complex investment portfolio
- A private collection
- Motor vehicles
Once a divorce is finalized, it is rarely ever possible to revisit and modify a property settlement. Therefore, it is critical to get it right the first time. I will ensure that all assets are correctly valued, that you receive your fair share of assets and that we focus on keeping intact the assets that are most important to you and your future.
Contact My Firm To Get Started
Greco Law, PLLC, is located in Woburn, and I serve clients throughout Essex, Suffolk and Middlesex counties. To schedule your initial consultation with an experienced and caring family law attorney, call me at 978-806-6922 or send me an email.
The information provided on this site is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Consult an attorney to obtain individual legal advice. Please be advised that this material may constitute advertising under the rules of the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts.
