Creative Solutions to Complex Property Division
If you have been married any length of time, you and your spouse have probably acquired substantial wealth (and debts) that must be divided in accordance with the community property laws of Texas. There are complicated issues in splitting any marital estate and many ways that you could come out on the short end without savvy legal counsel.
The Houston divorce lawyers of Bill De La Garza & Associates, P.C. have extensive experience in complex property division. From multimillion-dollar estates with diverse assets to the typical couple with a house and a retirement nest egg, we work to protect your fair share and find a practical solution to splitting your commingled wealth. Arrange a consultation today.
Texas Marital Asset Protection Lawyers
Attorney Bill De La Garza, Board Certified, Family Law - Texas Board of Legal Specialization, brings 35 years of experience to negotiation or litigation of asset division. He and his legal team are skilled at identifying all assets that go into the marital pot, accurately valuing those portfolios and suggesting ways to split assets to the best advantage of our clients while satisfying the court of a fair distribution.
Our high net worth clients can especially benefit from our proven capacity for resolving complex issues, such as:
- Identifying separate property that is not divided in divorce
- Valuation of a closely held business
- Tracing hidden assets or true income
- Disposition of the marital home (stay and refinance? sell and split the proceeds?)
- Dividing retirement assets (401k, IRAs, pensions and other qualified plans)
- Value of stock options, employment benefits and perks
- Distribution of joint debts
- Vehicles, Family Law, furnishings, pets and other community property
We use tracing experts and forensic accountants if spouses are not forthcoming about income, separate accounts or assets under their control, or if there is question about the characterization of assets as separate versus marital property. We also work with business valuation experts to put a dollar value on an ownership stake for purposes of divorce.
Once all assets are accounted for and a net worth is determined, we can engage in the creative trading and offsets to arrive at a settlement. Even here, there are important questions and issues: Is there a premarital agreement that trumps community property law? Would spousal support (alimony) be awarded and if so will it be ongoing or a lump sum? What will the other spouse get in consideration for equity in the house or the business? Is one spouse in better position to take on debts in exchange for a greater share of other assets?
When these complicated issues must be decided by a judge, we strive to keep litigation focused to control costs and stay on track for an efficient resolution.
Houston Divorce Property Division Attorneys
Call 888-707-0064 or e-mail us to schedule a consultation. We are committed to fighting for your rightful share and helping you focus on your long-term best interest.
