The Classification of Inter-Spousal Gifts

One of the most common misconceptions that arises in the context of equitable distribution is the belief that a divorcing spouse is entitled to retain any specific gifts which he or she was given by their partner during the course of the marriage. Clients often assume...

Primer on Business Valuation (Part One)

As I noted in my earlier blog entry (Primer on Property Division), when parties are attempting to divide their assets and debts, disputes often arise over the proper valuation of closely held business. Unlike automobiles, real estate or stock in publicly traded...

Primer on Property Division

The issue of property division, or equitable distribution, is often the first and foremost concern among dissolution of marriage litigants. While your circumstances may or may not weigh in favor of alimony, child-issues or attorney’s fees; very few divorces can...

Is an engagement ring a marital asset?

From time to time I come across a client who asks whether an engagement ring is considered a marital asset and, if so, whether it will be subject to the equitable distribution/property division performed at the end of the case. The simple answer is that an engagement...