Marital Asset Division

Division of Property in Complex Estates

Fairfield, Connecticut and Southern Vermont Divorce Attorney

Distribution of marital property can be complex, particularly under the unique equitable distribution laws of Connecticut. I have handled complicated property division in multi-million-dollar estates, protecting client interests in settlement negotiations or litigation.

Based in Greenwich, Connecticut, I represent men and women in southwestern Fairfield County in all aspects of divorce law. I also represent clients of southern Vermont, where I formerly practiced for many years. Call me at 203-869-0528 to arrange a consultation at your convenience.

Equitable Distribution

Under Connecticut law, all assets are considered marital property, regardless of when they were acquired. Connecticut is also an equitable distribution state; assets must be divided in a fair manner, but not necessarily 50-50. The court considers nine factors in determining what's equitable, including the length of the marriage, the occupations and employability of each party, and whether one spouse was out of the work force to raise the children. Reasons for the marriage breakdown (e.g., an extra-marital affair) may also be considered.

What does this mean for your divorce case?

It means that if you take your case to court, the outcome is less certain. I am a veteran trial lawyer, and I prepare all cases for the possibility of litigation. However, my preference is to achieve a settlement in which both parties feel that it is a "win-win" solution.

I help clients ensure that they get their fair share while also helping them look further down the road. Analyzing the appropriateness of each asset to each party's situation, I work for creative solutions. If one party wants to stay in the marital home, for example, what happens when the children are grown? Is it wise to trade your equity in the home for appreciated stock that can't be liquidated without a major tax hit? Is there a prenuptial agreement Divorce declaring certain assets off limits, and if so, will it stand up in court?

Accurate Valuation

The size of the marital estate is not necessarily a barrier to a workable settlement, but these cases are commonly litigated. I have extensive experience in the sophisticated valuations required in dividing large marital estates such as homes worth upwards of $1 million and stock options worth that much or more. I use experts as appropriate to determine the worth of all real estate (including vacation properties), retirement assets and investments, closely held businesses, deferred compensation plans and valuables.

Contact my Greenwich office today at 203-869-0528 to arrange a confidential consultation about your pending divorce and division of property. I can advise on the merits of settlement versus going to trial, and your options and strategies for protecting your share.