High Net-Worth Separation

High net-worth cases provide a unique set of challenges that require family law lawyers who are experienced in this area. Child support and spousal support for high net-worth spouses is often complicated because the parties have corporate income, international holdings or they have utilized tax reduction measures which have artificially reduced their income. Property division for high net-worth clients can involve complex corporate restructuring, business valuations and third party interests.

Moreover, many clients have concerns about confidentiality and disclosure of sensitive information. This may be because they are well-known personalities or because their businesses depend on industry and trade secrets.

We respond to these issues in high net-worth divorces by employing a team approach, whereby various aspects of the file can be handled by different lawyers. One lawyer may assist in discovery of all documentation pertaining to assets, debts and income. Another lawyer may assist in retaining and consulting with experts on business valuations or forensic accounting. Child custody and parenting time, including any expert reports, may be managed by another lawyer. Each member of the team will meet on a weekly basis to update each other on their progress and to plan for the best strategy to move the file forward.

We also understand privacy concerns and we are skilled negotiators who have successfully obtained attractive out-of-court settlements for many clients. We know how to achieve success in mediation and some of our lawyers are also mediators.

Furthermore, we believe that arbitration can be an efficient way to achieve results. In the arbitration process, a family Law lawyer is retained to act as a judge and make a decision.

Arbitration is private and confidential and it can be structured in any way that meets the needs of the parties. Sometimes arbitration is conducted by way of affidavit evidence and sometimes it is a mirror of the Family Court process. Either way, results can usually be obtained faster in arbitration than at trial due to the very long delays in the court system. In addition, arbitration can be structured as a mediation/arbitration in which the parties first attempt mediation but if that process is not successful the mediator becomes the arbitrator and is able to make a decision.

If you would like to know more about how we can help you in your high net-worth separation/divorce please contact us for a consultation.