High-Asset Divorce Representation In Texas
High-asset divorces are those involving couples with significant assets and income streams. In many cases, one or both parties own a business, is an executive-level employee in a company or has intellectual property or real estate investments. These cases are always complex.
At Law Office of Richard Lybarger, I make sure that all of my clients receive the time and attention their cases deserve. I believe in being upfront and candid about costs, as well as personalized attention. You never have to worry about being shuffled around by assistants or other lawyers. I handle every case as if it were my own and represent clients in Sugar Land, Pearland, League City and the surrounding areas.
The Importance Of Accurate Asset Valuation
In high-asset divorces, proper valuation forms the bedrock of property division. Business interests demand a multilayered analysis of tangible assets, market position and goodwill. Investment portfolios require examination beyond current market values to assess tax implications and vesting schedules. Real estate holdings need evaluation of market trends, debt obligations and appreciation potential.
As your attorney, I collaborate with a select network of CPAs, property assessors and financial analysts who apply rigorous methodology to determine accurate present and future values. This thorough approach reveals the hidden value in complex assets like restricted stock units, carried interest and deferred compensation packages.
Strategies For Protecting Your Interests
Building a strong position in a high-asset divorce requires early action and strategic planning. My comprehensive approach begins with immediate financial documentation and continues through methodical preparation for mediation or litigation. Your financial interests remain protected through proven methods developed over decades of high-value cases:
● Detailed analysis of stock options, including vesting schedules and transfer restrictions.
● Business valuation challenges, including discount rates and excess compensation adjustments.
● Strategic timing of qualified domestic relations orders (QDROs) for retirement accounts.
● Protection mechanisms for inheritance and separate property through tracing.
● International asset division compliance with foreign jurisdiction requirements.
These methods help maintain operational stability while systematically working toward optimal asset division. I focus on achieving outcomes that preserve wealth and support long-term financial independence.
The Role Of Forensic Accounting In High-Asset Divorces
Forensic accounting illuminates complex financial situations through detailed investigation and documentation. Financial professionals conduct bank record analysis, lifestyle audits and cash flow tracking to build complete financial profiles. Their methodical examination proves invaluable when addressing:
● Business revenue analysis, including identifying unreported income and personal expense allocation.
● Asset tracing through multiple entities and jurisdictions.
● Executive benefit package valuation, including stock options and phantom stock.
● Capital gains implications for various liquidation scenarios.
● Trust structure examination, including beneficial interests and distribution patterns.
Through comprehensive forensic review, I develop concrete evidence for equitable division. This detailed financial analysis often reveals previously undisclosed assets and strengthens negotiating positions for final settlement terms.
Frequently Asked Questions About High-Asset Divorces
High-asset divorces are complicated because of the nature of the assets involved, the difficulty of valuing that property appropriately and the tax issues that come with the division of the marital property and debts. In many cases, high-asset divorces end up in litigation.
What happens if there’s no prenuptial or postnuptial agreement?
In a community property state like Texas, nearly everything a couple acquires after the start of the marriage is to be divided equally in a divorce. However, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can override this general rule, although their validity is sometimes a subject of dispute.
How do I handle employee benefits, including stock options, deferred compensation and business valuations?
Determining the values of these particular assets may require appraisers, real estate professionals, financial professionals and tax professionals. It is important to gather as much information as possible so that a couple can make informed decisions and reduce the emotional strain involved in the divorce.
How long does a high-asset divorce process take in Sugar Land, Texas?
There is no set answer to this question. It typically takes a long time to identify, value and divide complicated assets. If both parties are cooperative and willing to negotiate, the process can be quicker.
Call Today To Schedule A Consultation
Call Law Office of Richard Lybarger at 713-678-0658 to speak with an attorney who cares about you and gets results. I will be happy to discuss your options.