New York Matrimonial Law — High-Net-Worth Divorce and Asset Protection

Equitable Distribution in New York

New York is an equitable distribution state — marital assets are divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Separate property (assets owned before marriage or received as gifts/inheritances) is generally not subject to division. Identifying and tracing separate property is often the key issue in high-net-worth divorces.

• Asset tracing — distinguishing marital from separate property
• Business valuation and division
• Retirement account division (QDROs)
• Real estate and investment portfolio division
• Deferred compensation and stock options
• Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreement enforcement

Pre-Nuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements

A well-drafted pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreement can protect your assets and simplify divorce proceedings if the marriage ends. We draft and review these agreements to ensure they are enforceable under New York law.

Estate Planning During and After Divorce

Divorce requires immediate updates to your estate plan. We coordinate estate planning changes alongside the divorce process to ensure your assets are protected and your estate plan reflects your new circumstances.

Protecting Inherited Assets

Inheritances are generally separate property in New York — but commingling inherited funds with marital assets can make them subject to equitable distribution. We help clients trace and protect inherited assets throughout the divorce process.