Dividing assets during a divorce can be one of the most challenging aspects of the process, but especially when those assets are complex. At Cohen Family Law, we understand the financial and emotional stakes involved in dividing high-value or intricate assets. For over 30 years, our firm has helped clients in Phoenix and throughout Arizona navigate the complexities of asset division, ensuring their interests are protected.
Whether you’re dealing with a family business, hidden assets, or high-value investments, our experienced team is here to provide the legal guidance you need during this critical time.
What Makes Asset Division Complex?
While Arizona follows community property laws, meaning assets acquired during the marriage are typically divided equally, certain factors can complicate the division process. Complex asset division arises when:
- Business Interests Are Involved: Valuing and dividing business interests require detailed assessments of ownership percentages, revenues, debts, and future earning potential.
- Investments and Retirement Accounts Need Division: Stocks, pensions, 401(k)s, and other investments often require specialized knowledge and tools like Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) to divide properly.
- Hidden Assets Are Suspected: Some spouses may attempt to hide assets or undervalue their worth, requiring forensic accounting to uncover and evaluate them.
- Real Estate Holdings Are Extensive: Properties held across multiple states or internationally can present jurisdictional and valuation challenges.
- Debts Must Be Allocated: In addition to dividing assets, debts incurred during the marriage must also be allocated, complicating the financial picture.
Common Types of Complex Assets
Some of the most challenging assets to divide include:
- Businesses: Family businesses, professional practices, and partnerships require professional valuations to determine their worth and how they will be divided.
- Real Estate: Investment properties, vacation homes, and commercial properties often require appraisals and considerations of tax implications.
- Retirement Accounts and Pensions: These may include deferred benefits that require careful analysis to ensure proper division.
- Stock Portfolios and Cryptocurrency: Volatile investments add another layer of complexity due to their fluctuating values.
- Trusts and Inheritances: Determining whether trusts or inheritances are community or separate property can be a contested issue.
- Hidden or Undisclosed Assets: Uncovering hidden assets often requires in-depth investigations and forensic financial reviews.
The Role of an Attorney in Complex Asset Division
Dividing complex assets requires not only a thorough understanding of Arizona family law but also specialized knowledge of finance, business valuation, and tax implications. At Cohen Family Law, our experienced attorneys:
- Work with Financial Experts: We collaborate with forensic accountants, appraisers, and valuation specialists to accurately assess the value of assets.
- Uncover Hidden Assets: If you suspect your spouse is concealing assets, we use proven legal and financial methods to identify and account for them.
- Negotiate and Advocate: We aim to negotiate fair settlements whenever possible but are fully prepared to litigate in court if necessary.
- Ensure Compliance with Community Property Laws: We ensure all community property is accurately identified, valued, and divided according to Arizona law.
Protecting Your Interests During Asset Division
Divorce can have long-term financial implications, especially when complex assets are involved. Our attorneys focus on safeguarding your financial future by addressing key issues such as:
- Tax consequences of dividing assets.
- How to handle assets that cannot easily be divided, such as family businesses or unique investments.
- Ensuring any division agreement reflects your short- and long-term financial goals.
Modifying Asset Division Orders
In most cases, property division orders are final once the divorce is finalized. However, there are limited circumstances in which modifications may be allowed, such as:
- Evidence of fraud or hidden assets.
- Errors in asset valuation.
If you suspect your original property division order was unfair or based on incomplete information, Cohen Family Law can help you explore your legal options.
Trust Cohen Family Law for Your Complex Asset Division Needs
Dividing complex assets requires skill, experience, and meticulous attention to detail. At Cohen Family Law, we are committed to guiding you through this challenging process with the personalized care and expertise you deserve. Whether you are negotiating a settlement or preparing for court, we will work tirelessly to protect your financial interests.
From our Phoenix office, Cohen Family Law serves clients facing complex asset division issues throughout Arizona. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve a fair and equitable outcome in your divorce.
