Many people think that community property rules in Texas facilitate easy asset division processes. Many couples learn the hard way that nothing could be further from the truth. Community property rules do not mandate an even 50/50 division of marital assets and debts.
Instead, they simply require that judges dividing property begin with the presumption that a 50/50 split is fair. However, they can make adjustments to property division based on evidence presented by either spouse during the divorce. Spouses also have the authority to reach their own decisions about property division matters before going to family court.
Those who have achieved more financial success during their marriages tend to face more complicated divorces and difficult property division negotiations than usual. What are some of the more complicated resources to address in a Texas divorce?
Business holdings
Whether someone runs a successful small business or a professional practice, the company can be a challenge to address in a divorce. They need to determine how to value the business and how much of the organization’s value is subject to division. Employment issues can also create challenges if both spouses currently work at the company technically owned by one of them.
Stocks or equity shares
Many married couples who enjoy financial comfort look to diversify their holdings. They invest in stocks or equity shares of publicly-traded businesses as a way of increasing the return on their current resources. While there is some risk involved with such investments, the return can be substantial.
Shareholders or equity holders in an organization receive dividends when the company is profitable. They can also vote at shareholder meetings in many cases and can influence the direction the company takes as it grows. Issues that may arise when addressing stocks or Equity shares in a divorce include setting a reasonable valuation date and determining how much of the portfolio is part of the marital estate.
Typically, those preparing for complex Texas divorces need to review their financial records very thoroughly. Securing the right support can make all the difference for those hoping to rebuild financially after a divorce. Business ownership and stocks are both factors that can complicate a divorce and may require special attention during the preparation stage of divorce proceedings.