Florida’s divorce laws apply the same to all couples who are going through the process no matter their incomes, possessions or financial states.
The family courts in Fort Myers and Cape Coral apply the same child custody, child support, and division of property rules. In most respects, the divorce process will also be the same.
However, this does not mean that high net worth divorces are the same as any other divorce. Practically, there are many differences which make understanding one’s rights in a high net worth divorce especially important:
- Frequently, couples with high incomes will face more complicated legal situations involving child support and alimony.
- Couples with a lot of wealth usually will have it diversified. Especially if one spouse is less than forthcoming about what they own and owe, tracking down all the assets can be difficult.
- Many of these couples will own a family business, a professional practice or other asset that can be hard to get a precise value on. Because of often complex finances, the practicalities of dividing the property can also involve some detailed legal transactions.
- Wealthier couples have more means to pay the costs associated with advocating for their positions. On a related point, litigation often involves a cost-benefit analysis, so when there is more money at stake for a couple to divide, the chances that they will hold firm to their positions increases.
- Although anyone can have a premarital agreement, someone with a lot of money to lose in a divorce could think to ask for one. While in some cases, premarital agreements simplify divorces, one of the spouses may try to challenge the agreement or question how to interpret it.
- High net worth couples, especially if they are well known or have professional practices, have incentives to keep their financial and personal affairs private. An ugly and public divorce could have long-term effects on a Lee County business owner or professional.
Even if the laws are the same, divorces that involves couples with a lot of property and income present unique challenges. It is important that someone involved in this type of divorce understand their options and alternatives so that they can protect their rights.
