Birmingham Complex Property Division

Knowledgeable Representation from Our Birmingham Divorce Attorneys

Any divorce case is subject to the guidelines listed under Chapter 552 of the Michigan Revised Statutes. This requires any marital property that was accumulated during the marriage to be divided between the spouses on an equitable basis. This means that rather than just splitting the value of homes, cars, furnishings, and financial accounts between the couple 50/50, division is made in a manner that seems fair, taking into account factors such as each person’s income and their role in acquiring or increasing the value of the property.

While this seems fairly straightforward, our Birmingham divorce attorneys know that there are numerous issues which can make property division more complex. At Iafrate & Salassa, P.C. we frequently deal with cases involving the following:

• Squandered marital assets: When one of the parties squanders or gives assets away to others, it is often possible to make up for these lost amounts by obtaining a larger portion in a property settlement.
• Hidden or unavailable marital assets: When spouses hide assets or have money or property tied up in trusts, it may require forensic accountants, past tax returns, and court orders to determine the exact values at stake.
• Commingled non-marital and marital assets: Black’s Law Dictionary defines commingling as putting multiple items together so they can not be taken apart. In property division, this generally refers to mixing marital and non-marital assets in a way that makes property division more challenging.
• Spouse’s contributions to non-marital assets: While non-marital property is generally not subject to equitable property distribution, it can be if it is proven that the spouse significantly contributed to the property’s maintenance or value.

Reach Out to Our Birmingham Divorce and Property Division Attorneys

In divorce cases, getting the appropriate marital property settlement amount is often key to rebuilding your life and ensuring your financial security. At Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., we have over 50 years of experience helping clients in complex property division cases, and can advise you on how to obtain the maximum amount you are entitled to. Call or contact our office online today and request a free consultation to discuss your case and to see how our Birmingham divorce attorneys can assist you.