SMITHFIELD OFFICE
One Courthouse Square
P.O. Box 119
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 934-6187
CLEVELAND/GARNER OFFICE
5842 Hwy 42 West
Garner, NC 27529
(919) 661-2005
Equitable Distribution of Property
North Carolina Property Division Attorneys
The equitable distribution of property is one of the most contentious aspects of a divorce or legal separation. How can you make sure you aren't taken advantage of by your ex-spouse? Contact the lawyers of Mast, Mast, Johnson, Wells & Trimyer P.A. in Smithfield or Garner, North Carolina, today.
Our property division attorneys have been protecting the rights and the assets of clients throughout eastern North Carolina for more than 45 years. We have handled divorces involving millions of dollars in marital assets as well as ones with virtually no assets.
No matter what the size of your estate, our lawyers make certain that all marital assets are included, properly valued, and equitably divided. We will draft a fair property division agreement that may include assets such as:
- Real estate & vacation homes
- Personal property and vehicles
- Bank accounts including checking and savings
- Jewelry, Antiques, Paintings
- Small Businesses
- Securities & Bonds
- Retirement accounts, 401K, Pension plans
- Employee benefits & Stock options
- Commissions, bonuses, accrued vacation and sick time earned during the marriage
When necessary, accountants, appraisers and other experts may need to be hired to evaluate assets such as businesses and real estate. We also recognize that some assets have emotional value that may exceed their financial worth. We will discuss your priorities and motivations and work to create a fair and equitable division of property that meets your needs. If representing you in an Equitable Distribution matter, a cost-benefit analysis must be implemented depending on the value the equity in your marriage (value, property, assets, retirement, etc.) so you don't end up paying more in litigation fees to end up with property that is worth less than the pursuit. We can help you analyze your situation and put you in contact with experts in the field who can value you and your spouse's assets.
Additionally, in Johnston County, the parties must attend a mediation session to assist in resolving the distribution. During the mediation process, the parties and their attorneys will be present as well as a mediator, who is usually a retired judge or attorney who has practiced in domestic matters before. The mediator will try to come up with a mutually acceptable resolution. In the event the parties are not able to come to terms, then the matter will be heard by a district court judge who will determine what assets/property and debts go to each party.
For effective representation at a reasonable cost, please contact Mast, Mast, Johnson, Wells & Trimyer P.A. today.