High Net Worth Divorce Lawyer | Livingston, NJ

Your life’s work. Your family’s future. In a high-stakes divorce in Livingston, these aren’t just sentiments; they’re assets on the brink of division. If you’re facing this financial and emotional upheaval, generic legal advice simply won’t cut it. You need a strategic partner, a Livingston high net worth divorce lawyer who speaks the language of complex finances and understands the profoundly personal nature of your situation. 

This blog sheds light on what makes these divorces different in New Jersey and why securing the right legal team isn’t just smart, it’s essential for protecting what matters most.

What Is Considered a High Net Worth Divorce?

Not all divorces involve million-dollar estates or multi-tiered investment portfolios. But when they do, courts and lawyers approach things differently. 

So, what is considered a high net worth divorce in New Jersey? While there’s no official dollar amount set in stone, high net worth divorces typically involve:

• Combined marital assets valued at more than $1 million;
• Ownership of businesses, professional practices, or investment properties;
• Complex financial structures, such as trusts, offshore accounts, or multiple retirement plans; and
• High-value personal assets, including artwork, vehicles, jewelry, or collectibles.

These divorces also include concerns about prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, income disparities, and tax planning. That’s why working with a high net worth divorce attorney isn’t just helpful; it’s strategic.

Property Division in High Net Worth Cases

New Jersey follows the rule of equitable distribution, which means the division of marital property must be fair, but not necessarily 50/50. (N.J. Rev. Stat. § 2A:34-23.1 (2024)). 

This principle becomes more complicated in high-net-worth divorces due to the nature of the assets involved. Valuing and dividing the following may require accountants, appraisers, and business valuation professionals:

• Privately owned companies or partnerships;
• Multiple real estate holdings;
• Stock options, bonuses, and deferred compensation;
• Retirement plans and pensions; and
• Intellectual property rights or royalties.

Because hidden or misclassified assets can affect your long-term outcome, a high-assets divorce lawyer will look beyond basic bank statements to ensure everything is correctly identified, valued, and negotiated.

Alimony and Lifestyle Considerations

In high net worth divorces, alimony (spousal support) is often among the most contested issues. The court considers many factors, including:

• Length of the marriage, 
• Standard of living established during the marriage,
• Each spouse’s earning capacity and income,
• Present value of property,
• Debts and liabilities of each spouse,
• Pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreements,
• Need to occupy the marital residence with children, and
• Contributions to the household or the other spouse’s career.

But in high-asset cases, “standard of living” can mean premium housing, luxury travel, access to high-end goods, and even private staff. The court may ask a supporting spouse to maintain that lifestyle for the other party. At the same time, courts expect both sides to act in good faith regarding need and ability to pay.

Child Support and Custody in High-Income Families

New Jersey’s child support guidelines only apply to annual income up to $187,200. Therefore, the court must determine a fair child support award for high earners based on the child’s needs and the parents’ financial circumstances. That might include:

• Tuition for a private or preparatory school;
• Extracurricular activities, tutors, or therapy;
• Travel costs for vacations or long-distance parenting time; and
• College savings plans or trust fund management.

While courts still base custody decisions on the best interests of the child, wealth can create practical complications. A Livingston high net worth divorce lawyer can help you navigate shared parenting time, relocation concerns, and how financial planning intersects with parenting plans.

Common Challenges in High Net Worth Divorces

Divorces involving substantial wealth often require additional planning, documentation, and strategic care. These cases can drag on or become contentious if handled without attention to detail. Some of the most common hurdles include:

• Undisclosed or hidden assets. One spouse may try to underreport income or hide money in shell accounts or business entities.
• Disputed business valuations. Privately held companies often have inflated or minimized values depending on the party presenting the report.
• Complex tax issues. Asset division, alimony, and property sales carry tax implications requiring planning.
• Public exposure. High-profile divorces may attract media attention, requiring added privacy protection.

Failing to address these issues early can impact the final settlement and cause long-term financial harm.

Tips for Protecting Your Assets in Divorce

If you’re preparing for divorce and have significant assets to protect, there are practical steps you can take right now. These do not replace legal advice, but they can help you enter the process prepared. Here are some smart moves to consider:

• Organize your financial records. Gather tax returns, account statements, property records, and business documents.
• Avoid large purchases. Spending sprees can raise red flags and may be seen as trying to reduce the marital estate.
• Review any marital agreements. Ensure you understand the terms of any pre- or postnuptial agreements already in place.
• Avoid posting on social media. Images of vacations or spending habits can be used as evidence in court.
• Work with professionals early. Engage a divorce attorney and financial advisors before things escalate.

Taking these steps helps reduce surprises and gives your legal team the tools they need to build a strong case on your behalf.

Why Choose Weiner Law?

At Weiner Law, clients benefit from a full-service legal team known for its collaborative approach and statewide reputation. Our attorneys bring decades of experience and are recognized for results. We look to build strong, trusted relationships with those we serve. 

In the 2025 edition of The Best Lawyers in America^®, Lori Cieckiewicz was honored for her work in Family Law and Family Law Mediation, reflecting the high level of respect our attorneys have earned across New Jersey. With knowledgeable professionals, Weiner Law can manage every facet of a high-net-worth divorce with care, strategy, and personalized attention.

Talk to a Livingston High Net Worth Divorce Lawyer Today

Don’t go it alone if you’re facing a complex divorce in Livingston. The right attorney can protect your assets, support your goals, and confidently guide you through every decision. 

Call Weiner Law today at 973-403-1100 or fill out our secure contact form to speak with a high net worth divorce attorney who understands the stakes and is ready to help. 

Resources:New Jersey Courts, New Jersey Rules of Court Appendix IX-A, Considerations in the Use of Child Support Guidelines, Number 20 (September 2022), link.