Taunton Property Division Attorney
How to divide property in a divorce can be a hotly contested issue between any couple. If you are going through a divorce, you need a skilled negotiator to protect your interests and defend your rights to marital property.
At the Massachusetts Law Office of Michael J. Brothers, we represent clients in Taunton, Attleboro, Brockton, Dedham, Fall River, Framingham, Milford, New Bedford, Wareham, Wrentham and throughout Eastern Massachusetts in divorce and family law matters. Attorney Michael J. Brothers has extensive experience successfully negotiating for clients inside and outside of the courtroom. To discuss the division of assets and debts in your divorce, contact a Taunton property division lawyer at our family law firm.
Understanding Equitable Distribution of Marital Property
Massachusetts is an equitable distribution state. This means marital property in a divorce is not divided 50/50. Instead, the court considers a number of factors to determine what is a fair distribution of debts and assets. These mandatory factors include the:
- Length of the marriage and the conduct of the parties throughout the marriage
- Age, health and station of the parties
- Occupations, vocational skills and employability of the parties
- Amount and sources of income for each party
- Estate of each party
- Liabilities and needs of each party
- Opportunity for each party for future acquisition of capital assets and income
- Present and future needs of any dependent children
In addition to these mandatory factors, the court may consider the contribution of each of the parties in the acquisition, preservation, or appreciation in value of their respective estates. Also, the court may look at the contribution of each of the parties as a homemaker to the family unit.
What Is Marital Property?
Marital property is broadly defined in Massachusetts. It can include all assets and debts acquired before and during the marriage, such as:
- Real estate
- Retirement plan benefits
- Closely held business interests
- Gifted, inherited and trust assets
- Stocks, stock options and restricted stocks
- Damage awards from a lawsuit
- Personal property, such as art, vehicles and antiques
We will take a team approach to your case. When necessary, we will work with accountants, appraisers and investigators to determine the value of your assets and debts. We will look for any hidden assets and work diligently to develop a plan of distribution that is equitable and encompasses all of your marital property.
Contact a Skilled Massachusetts Debt Division Lawyer
We can help you understand your legal options and develop a property division agreement that meets your present and future needs. Contact a Massachusetts debt division attorney at our firm to discuss your case.
