Experts in Family Law
When to Call an Expert for Your Divorce Case
Divorce can be complex, especially when financial and legal matters come into play. In many cases, consulting an expert can make all the difference in ensuring a fair outcome. Here are some scenarios where professional expertise is invaluable:
Determining Property Value: If a marital home or other type of property needs to be appraised, an expert can provide an accurate valuation to ensure a fair division of assets. Websites like Kelly Blue Book and Zillow are considered hearsay and not admissible at trial.
Hidden or Dissipated Assets: If a spouse has been hiding or spending assets leading up to the divorce, a forensic accountant can help uncover financial discrepancies.
Business Valuation: If a business was started during the marriage, an expert can assess its value for equitable distribution.
Tracing Non-Marital Assets: If assets are being claimed as marital property, a financial expert can trace their origins to prove whether they are separate property.
Tax Implications: What appears to be a fair 50/50 division may not be equitable after taxes are considered—an expert can help navigate this complexity.
Spousal Support Considerations: If one party seeks spousal support, financial analysis can help determine the other party’s ability to pay.
Assessing Self-Sufficiency: If a spouse requests maintenance despite having the ability to support themselves, a vocational expert can analyze their earning capacity.
Income Manipulation: Some individuals may intentionally take a lower-paying job or start a new business before litigation to reduce alimony or child support obligations—experts can investigate such tactics.
Undisclosed Assets and Income: If a spouse possesses hidden assets or unreported income, financial professionals can uncover them.
Parenting and Psychological Factors: If a parent has a personality disorder affecting their ability to parent, expert evaluations can help protect the child’s well-being.
In these situations, having the right professionals—such as forensic accountants, business valuation experts, tax specialists, and psychological evaluators—can be crucial for ensuring a fair and just resolution. If you're facing any of these issues, consulting an expert could be a game-changer in your case.
Submitted by: Amanda S. Lotspeich, Attorney-at-Law
