Chicago High-Asset Divorce Attorneys

Do You Need a Chicago High-Asset Divorce Attorney?

Are you planning to get a divorce? Does your marital estate include real estate holdings, business and professional assets, complex trusts, retirement accounts, and other complex, high-value assets? If your answer to these questions is yes, then it is highly advised that you get in touch with the knowledgeable Chicago divorce attorneys at Nottage and Ward, LLP, for legal assistance.

When divorcing spouses have high-value assets between them, the proceedings can become extremely contentious and drawn out. Each individual wants to retain his/her fair portion of the assets involved, yet it can be very difficult to determine an equitable distribution of assets.

The legal team at Nottage and Ward, LLP, is highly qualified to assist in such matters. We have helped many clients in Chicago and the surrounding area bring a positive resolution to their asset disputes in an efficient manner.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your own complex high-asset divorce case, please don't hesitate to call us at (312) 332-2915.

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Why Choose Us Over Other High-Asset Divorce Attorneys in Chicago?

• 35+ years of focused family law experience in Illinois
• In-depth experience with complex property division and business valuations
• Skilled at uncovering hidden or undervalued assets
• Personalized representation for doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and executives
• Discreet handling of sensitive financial and personal matters
• Strategic approach grounded in litigation and negotiation excellence
• Listed in the Martindale-Hubbell Bar Register of Pre-eminent Lawyers

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How Can We Help Protect Your Assets?

Contrary to popular belief, the division of assets in a divorce isn’t always split down the middle. The state of Illinois works under the principle of “equitable distribution.” This means assets in a divorce must be divided in a fair and equitable manner, but the actual amount that each spouse receives is based on a number of different factors, such as:

• The income of each spouse
• Individual property owned by each spouse
• The earning potential for both parties in the future
• The couple’s standard of living
• The duration of their marriage
• Each party’s financial needs

The process of attaching a monetary value to these various items occurs during the valuation stage of the proceedings. At this time, the courts will also determine which assets are considered to be marital, or under the ownership of the individual spouses.

It can be a tricky process to identify which high-value assets should be equitably distributed. For example, certain assets, such as art and antique collections, jewelry, and automobiles, can have both financial and sentimental value. Other things, such as business holdings, stock options, insurance policies, and retirement plans, might need to be evenly divided, even though one spouse was responsible for managing these assets.

Trying to coordinate the distribution of your entire financial portfolio is a daunting task, and it’s easy to get lost in the weeds. That’s why it’s important to consult legal guidance.

With a knowledgeable Chicago high-asset divorce lawyer, we can help you evaluate the full value of each asset and make sure you receive your fair portion.

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Past Client Testimonials

“A Force in the Courtroom” - Lonnie (5-Star Avvo Review)

Terrific, aggressive attorney. Jeffrey is a force in the courtroom. Period. If you want an attorney who will aggressively and successfully advocate for you, then this is the attorney for you. I am thankful that I had Jeffrey on my side and not against me.

“The Entire Process Was Settled in a Matter of Weeks” - Jeremy (5-Star Avvo Review)

Excellent divorce attorney in downtown Chicago. Jeffery Knipmeyer handled my divorce proceedings. I started the process with zero knowledge of what my financial and legal obligations to my spouse would be going forward. Jeffrey provided a likely range of outcomes and the entire process was settled in a matter of weeks. He is extremely professional, knowledgeable, and prompt. I strongly recommend Jeffrey Knipmeyer as an attorney.

“I Recommend Him and His Talents With No Reservations” - Jessica (5-Star Avvo Review)

A GREAT LAWYER! Jeff helped me through a long and protracted divorce. His patience and unerring knowledge and instincts were of great benefit to me. He is a smart, funny man with killer instincts! I recommend him and his talents with no reservations.

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We Work with a Network of Qualified Experts

Our firm has access to a network of business valuation, forensic accounting, and other financial experts to help us identify and value complex assets. We have the resources to help you address a broad range of financial issues that often come up in high-asset divorce disputes, including:

• Retirement Assets (401(k)s, IRAs, pensions): We will conduct a comprehensive review of each and every contribution and its source to reach a proper judgment for these funds.
• Business Assets: We will conduct a proper evaluation of any closely held businesses and help you determine how much reimbursement or award you are entitled to for your share.
• Possible Hidden Assets: Our legal team knows all the signs of hidden assets and will help you expose anything that is being kept from you.
• Prenuptial Agreements and Postnuptial Agreements: We will ensure that the contractual obligations drawn out in your prenuptial/postnuptial agreements are honored, if they are enforceable by law.
• Unauthorized Transference: No transfer of property should occur without agreement from both parties before or after a petition for a divorce.
• Complex Property Tax Issues: When dividing a large estate, the number of transactions, along with their tax implications, can seem innumerable. We will do the paperwork for you.
• Complex Property Tax Issues: When dividing a large estate, the number of transactions, along with their tax implications, can seem innumerable. We will do the paperwork for you.

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Making Complex Chicago Divorce Matters Easier to Handle

To learn more about how Nottage and Ward, LLP, can assist you with your Chicago complex high-asset divorce case, schedule an appointment for a consultation at our office today. Call (312) 332-2915 or fill out and submit an online contact form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as a high-asset divorce?

A divorce involving significant wealth, typically with complex assets such as businesses, multiple properties, large investments, or substantial retirement funds.

How is marital property divided in Illinois?

Illinois uses equitable distribution, which means assets are divided fairly but not necessarily equally.

What if my spouse is hiding assets?

Our Chicago lawyers work with forensic experts to uncover hidden income or undisclosed assets through a detailed financial investigation.

Are premarital assets protected in Illinois?

Generally, yes. However, commingling of assets or appreciation during marriage may make them partially subject to division.

How are businesses handled in divorce?

Businesses may be valued and classified as marital or non-marital. We help determine value and structure fair settlements.

Can my retirement accounts be divided?

Yes. Accounts such as 401(k)s, pensions, and IRAs can be divided using Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs).

How is executive compensation addressed?

Deferred bonuses, stock options, and restricted stock units are analyzed and valued for equitable division.

Will my divorce be public?

We strive for confidentiality, resolving matters discreetly when possible through settlement or mediation.

How is spousal maintenance calculated?

Illinois law provides guidelines, but high-income cases may involve deviation based on lifestyle and need.

Do I need a lawyer with financial expertise?

Yes. High-asset divorces require a legal team experienced in asset valuation, finance, and tax implications.

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About Our Lawyers

Leslie Fineberg

A founding partner of Nottage and Ward, LLP, Leslie Fineberg has more than 35 years of experience in family law, with a concentration in high-net-worth and complex financial divorce cases. Known for her poise and precision in court, Leslie provides clear guidance and confident advocacy. ARDC #6180735

Jeffrey Knipmeyer

Jeffrey Knipmeyer brings over three decades of experience managing complex divorce and financial matters, including business valuation, spousal maintenance, and asset tracing. His meticulous approach has earned the trust of professionals and business owners across Chicago. ARDC #6201473

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Additional Information

• Dividing Furniture and Household Property in a High-Asset Divorce in Illinois
• Accounting for Stakeholders in a High-Asset Divorce in Illinois
• Lifestyle Adjustments and Financial Planning After a High-Net-Worth Divorce in Chicago
• Dividing Rental Property in an Illinois High-Asset Divorce: What You Need to Know