How To Financially Navigate Divorce

The divorce process involves a financial separation as well as an emotional one. Which assets will you own following the divorce and which will be owned by your former spouse? Once you have decided to separate, learning how to financially navigate divorce will be your top priority.

In an uncontested divorce, the two of you may be able to divide your assets on your own, and then have that agreement memorialized by your attorneys. If future ownership is in dispute, however, a court may have to decide. How the judge will make that decision will depend largely on guidelines set out in state law. While specifics vary significantly from state to state, you should be aware of some key concepts, including marital and non-marital property and equitable distribution.

How To Financially Navigate Divorce:

• Marital vs individual/non-marital property
• Dividing marital property
• Should you sell your jewelry after divorce?

 

Marital Vs Individual / Non-marital Property

Marital property includes virtually all property that you and your spouse acquired during the marriage: real estate investments, bank accounts, art collections, cars, boats and so on. Almost anything owned by you and your spouse will be included except property that was:

• Given to one of you or that you inherited
• Acquired before marriage
• Acquired using property that was a gift, inherited or already owned before the marriage
• Excluded by a prenuptial or other agreement

You should discuss the issue of marital property carefully with your attorney, because it can become very complex depending on how nonmarital assets were combined and used during the marriage. What’s more, appreciation of

nonmarital property during your marriage may be considered marital property in some jurisdictions.

 

Dividing Marital Property

Most states will rely on the concept of equitable distribution in dividing marital property. The goal is achieve a division that is fair based on a range of considerations, including the contribution of each spouse to acquiring and maintaining the marital property, the length of the marriage, needs related to child custody and the financial needs, circumstances and future prospects of each spouse. In a contentious divorce, it is important to have a knowledgeable divorce lawyer to ensure that all relevant factors are included in your case. Another system that exists for dividing marital property is the “community property” approach, which is used in nine states. In these states, property is divided evenly between the spouses, regardless of how it came into the marriage or the projected financial needs of either spouse. Clearly, the classification of community property versus nonmarital property takes on special importance in the division of assets.

 

How To Financially Navigate Divorce: Sell Your Unwanted Items

Keep in mind that decisions involving luxury items like expensive jewelry and watches should not focus solely on value. You should also consider liquidity, cash flow and the cost of maintaining your standard of living. What will be best for your long-term interests? That’s not always an easy question to answer when the future is unclear. Whenever you’re in doubt of what the right decision is, always consult a trusted attorney, accountant, or financial advisor. Stay focused on your goals and make informed decisions.

WP Diamonds is your partner when it comes to selling luxury watches and designer or diamond jewelry. Whether you are looking to sell an engagement ring that you no longer wear or a watch that reminds you of your past relationship, they are on hand to help. They boast an A+ BBB rating as well as hundreds of client reviews. With a fast, free and no obligation to sell service, get in touch today for your price quote.

By a Senior New York Financial Expert