Property Division in Pittsburgh

There are three steps to resolving equitable distribution matters:

• Identifying the assets. The first step for a property distribution lawyer in analyzing an equitable distribution of marital property case is to identify and/or locate the assets and debts of the parties. Identifying and locating each spouse’s assets and debts is generally accomplished through a legal process known as discovery. Discovery is a process whereby an experienced equitable distribution lawyer will submit written questions to the other spouse regarding the marital property and debts, and a written response is required. Other times, the equitable distribution attorney may request documents to be produced by the other spouse or may conduct a deposition and require the deposed spouse to answer questions under oath. In some circumstances, the exchange of documents and information is required under PA law. In other circumstances, the information may never be uncovered unless it is requested and obtained by the spouse’s property distribution lawyers. The discovery process is critically important when it is believed that a spouse may have hidden assets during the marriage in an attempt to prevent the other spouse from obtaining a fair property distribution settlement or order.
• Characterizing the assets. The second step for a property distribution lawyer in analyzing an equitable distribution case is to characterize the uncovered assets and debts as marital or nonmarital. Assets acquired before the date of marriage, assets acquired through inheritance or gift to one spouse, and assets excluded by way of valid prenuptial agreement are generally characterized as nonmarital property. An exception is that the increase in value during the marriage of nonmarital assets is generally considered a marital asset. Generally all other assets acquired during the spouses’ marriage are considered marital property and subject to PA’s equitable distribution process. The same rules hold true regarding the characterization of debts as marital or nonmarital. While it sounds easy to characterize the assets and debts as marital or nonmarital, this is not always the case especially when nonmarital and marital assets are commingled.
• Valuing the assets. The third step in evaluating a property distribution case is to determine the value of the assets and debts. The balances in bank accounts or the amounts owed on credit cards are readily apparent. However, other assets and debts may require that experts be retained by the divorce attorneys for a fair determination of their value. In divorce cases where real estate valuation issues emerge, our law firm may hire real estate appraisers. In a case where the cash value of a pension plan is involved, our family law attorneys may hire an actuary to perform a present-day cash value determination. In cases where the spouses own a business, business valuation experts and/or forensic accountants may be retained by our divorce lawyers. 

Examples Of Marital Assets In A PA Divorce:

• Marital home
• Retirement plans including pensions and 401(k)
• Business interests including interests in corporations and partnerships
• Motor vehicles including cars, planes, boats, RVs and other vehicles
• Stocks and bonds
• Cash, money owed to you
• Furniture and furnishings
• Collectibles, jewelry, sporting & entertainment equipment
• Cash value of life insurance policies

Examples Of Marital Debts And Liabilities In A PA Divorce:

• Mortgages on real estate
• Credit card accounts
• Automobile or other vehicle loans
• Bank or personal loans
• Judgments or tax liens

What Are The Client’s Goals Regarding The Division Of Marital Property And Debts In The Divorce?

Our Pittsburgh marital property lawyers must develop a plan with our clients to identify their short-term and long-term financial goals.  Clients need to consider not only their immediate needs such as housing, but their long-term needs such as retirement income.

• Does a mother wish to retain the marital home for the benefit of the minor children?
• Does a husband wish to retain the majority of retirement benefits acquired through his employment?
• Can the parties continue to jointly operate a marital business?
• Do spouses who both work wish to keep their retirement accounts in separate names and utilize other assets to make a fair division of property?
• In today’s economy, many equitable distribution cases involve division of large amounts of debt or are debt-only cases. What is the best strategy for our clients in those equitable distribution cases?
• What is the best option for clients if the value of the marital home is less than the amount of the mortgage?
• Will there be any tax consequences of the proposed division of property and debts?

The Miami property law attorneys at Lisa Marie Vari & Associates, P.C. will give you legal advice to help guide you through the property division process by listening to your goals and then working hard to achieve them.