High asset divorce cases in Chicago are particularly trying for all parties involved and require more time and care than an average divorce. In a high asset divorce, the divorce attorney will need to conduct a thorough investigation so as to gain an accurate picture of the marital property. He or she will then need to hire outside professionals, including real estate appraisers, forensic accountants, and financial planners, to glean insight as to the true value of the assets. If you and your spouse have considerable assets, consult with an experienced divorce attorney in Chicago. The lawyers at Arami Law will provide unwavering legal support throughout the duration of the divorce process and fight to protect your legal and financial interests.
When you work with the legal team at Arami Law, you will receive the help of more than just your lawyer – you will have the advice and support of a number of financial experts who will aid in the valuation of your assets and ensure that your financial interests are safeguarded. If you suspect that your spouse has hidden assets, a forensic account can trace investments and withdrawals and locate them. A financial planner can provide a thorough analysis of you and your spouse’s assets and liabilities so that the judge will have a clear picture of each of your financial standing.
In high asset divorce cases, the judge will need a valuation of all marital property, including assets such as:
An attorney who has experience in dealing with high asset cases can assist you in evaluating your case and advise you on what to do next to advance your best interests.
Arami Law has extensive experience in dealing with high net worth divorce cases throughout Chicago, Cook County, and the surrounding counties. If you and your spouse have a considerable amount of assets together, we recommend consulting with an attorney prior to taking any additional steps as far as your divorce is concerned. An experienced attorney will guide you on the best way to proceed with your divorce and protect your best interests at the same time. To schedule a consultation with one of our family law attorneys, contact our law firm today online or by phone to set up your consultation.
We can meet with you at our office, or discuss your case with you over the phone. We pride ourselves on our accessibility and make certain to help each and every client in a timely manner.
A high-asset divorce typically involves marital estates valued at $1 million or more, though the complexity of assets matters as much as their total value. These cases frequently involve business ownership, investment portfolios, real estate holdings, executive compensation packages, stock options, deferred compensation plans, pensions, and other sophisticated financial instruments.
Chicago’s economic landscape produces a high volume of complex divorce cases involving corporate executives, healthcare professionals, technology entrepreneurs, real estate developers, and professional athletes. Each of these client profiles brings distinct financial complexity that requires specialized legal and financial expertise.
The core challenge in high-asset divorce is not just identifying what is owned — it is determining what is marital versus non-marital property, accurately valuing each asset, and arguing for an equitable distribution that protects your financial future.
High-asset divorce requires a different caliber of legal representation than a typical divorce. At Arami Law, our strategy is built around three pillars:
1. Complete Financial Discovery
We conduct thorough discovery to ensure every asset is identified and properly valued. This includes subpoenaing financial records, deposing opposing parties and their financial advisors, and deploying forensic accountants when we suspect concealment or manipulation of financial records.
2. Strategic Valuation
Asset valuation is rarely straightforward in high-asset cases. The same business can be valued very differently depending on the methodology used. We work proactively with qualified appraisers and financial experts to develop valuations that are both accurate and strategically advantageous.
3. Tax-Conscious Outcomes
A settlement that looks favorable on paper can be significantly less valuable after taxes. We analyze the after-tax implications of every proposed settlement and structure agreements that maximize long-term financial outcomes for our clients.
Is my spouse entitled to half of my business?
Not necessarily. Illinois follows equitable distribution, not a strict 50/50 split. The marital portion of a business — based on its growth during the marriage — may be subject to division, but you may be able to offset a buyout against other assets rather than splitting ownership.
How are stock options divided in an Illinois divorce?
The portion of unvested stock options attributable to services performed during the marriage is generally considered marital property. The specific allocation uses formulas that courts have developed over time, and the analysis is highly fact-specific.
Can a prenuptial agreement protect my assets?
A valid prenuptial agreement is one of the most effective ways to protect pre-marital assets and business interests. Illinois courts enforce prenuptial agreements that were entered into voluntarily, with full financial disclosure, and without unconscionable terms. If you don’t have one, a postnuptial agreement may still be an option.
What if I think my spouse is hiding assets?
This is more common than most people realize. Warning signs include sudden business losses, undisclosed accounts, large cash withdrawals, and transfers to relatives. Our attorneys and forensic accounting partners are experienced at uncovering hidden assets through the discovery process.
