Lake Charles High Asset Divorce Lawyer

Lake Charles High Asset Divorce Attorney

Going through a divorce can be stressful, no matter the circumstances. A high-asset divorce can complicate the process even further. That’s why it can be highly advantageous to work with a Lake Charles high-asset divorce lawyer.

High Asset Divorce in Lake Charles

High-asset divorces are divorces involving substantial or complex financial holdings. In these situations, the couple shares a higher-than-average number of assets that must be divided between them through the divorce settlement.

These assets are typically higher in value as well, which makes it all the more important to determine where everything goes in the divorce agreement. I’m William L. Godley at Godley Law Firm, and I’m here to help ensure you secure the assets to which you’re entitled.

Divorce in Louisiana

Louisiana has a divorce rate of 0.7 divorces per 1,000 people, which is the lowest divorce rate of all the states. For context, Illinois is the next lowest, with 1.1 divorces per 1,000. Approximately 547,000 people are divorced or separated in the state. However, it’s still an issue many people face in Lake Charles and beyond.

Looking at Calcasieu Parish, approximately 18 percent of women and 14 percent of men are separated or divorced. Our team at Godley Law Firm has experience navigating complex divorce cases, and we’re ready to help you with yours. Call us today to schedule a consultation with a Lake Charles high-asset divorce lawyer from Godley Law Firm.

Common Pain Points of High Asset Divorces in Lake Charles

If you or your spouse have a lot of assets or simply have high-value assets, the divorce process can become much more complicated. A high-asset divorce can typically bring with it issues like:

• Asset valuation. Since high-asset divorces typically involve more complex assets, it can be more challenging to value everything accurately, especially because many of these assets tend to fluctuate. Your Lake Charles high-asset divorce lawyer can help you find the right resources for this process.
• Business interests. If one or both spouses run a business, it’s important to determine all business interests in a divorce. You have some options when it comes to handling a business that is considered a marital asset. One spouse can buy out the other spouse, or both spouses can sell and divide the proceeds. Alternatively, one spouse can give up the business interest in exchange for a different asset, or both spouses can continue running it together.
• Financial privacy. Many high-asset divorces involve notable people. There’s a risk of their private business being out in the open when going through more complex divorce proceedings. You may want to consider mediation or arbitration to settle out of court and keep matters more private.
• Hidden assets. Even though spouses are required to provide a full financial disclosure, it’s possible for extra assets to slip through the cracks. One spouse may try to conceal assets so they aren’t disclosed in the divorce by creating secret bank accounts, inflating debt, temporarily transferring assets away, undervaluing real estate, and using offshore accounts.
• Property division. Dividing property between both parties can become more contentious when those properties are worth a lot of money. It’s important to differentiate between separate property and community property so you can keep assets that are rightfully yours.
• Spousal support. In some high-asset divorces, one spouse makes significantly more than the other. To maintain financial stability either through the divorce process or after it’s finalized, some courts may order one spouse to provide support or alimony to the other.
• Taxes. Divorces come with tax implications, especially when it comes to dividing and/or selling assets. You and your spouse may want to transfer assets before the divorce to avoid potential tax penalties.

High asset divorces in Lake Charles require skilled legal guidance to address complex issues like asset valuation, business interests, and the division of substantial property. Attorney William L. Godley brings over 25 years of experience to each case, offering strategic solutions and personal attention to protect your interests. If you want a knowledgeable advocate who understands the nuances of high asset divorce, contact Godley Law Firm today to schedule a confidential consultation and secure the experienced representation you deserve.

FAQs

Reach Out to a Lake Charles High-Asset Divorce Lawyer to Learn More About Your Options

Filing for divorce can be challenging and emotionally draining, especially if you and your spouse can’t agree on the terms of your divorce. Things only get more and more complicated as you involve more assets that are of a higher value. Even if you do see eye to eye on everything, it’s highly beneficial to work with a legal professional.

Our team at Godley Law Firm can help you draft and file important documents, negotiate terms, and even represent you in court if your case enters litigation. If you’re ready to start planning, get in touch with us to set up an appointment today.