What to Look for in a High-Net-Worth Divorce Attorney
If you are an executive or a high-net-worth individual who is navigating the process of divorce, you want an attorney in your corner who is familiar with the unique challenges of a high-net-worth divorce. Choosing a high-net-worth divorce attorney who understands that each case is unique and who will apply a tailored approach to ensure the best possible outcome for you is key. Our team is here to explore what to look for in a high-net-worth divorce lawyer so that your case proceeds as smoothly as possible.
High-net-worth divorces often include issues such as stock options, executive compensation packages, multi-property portfolios, family-owned businesses, and complex tax considerations. Choosing the right attorney ensures these assets are valued accurately and protected throughout the process.
While the law treats all divorces under the same statutory framework, the financial stakes in a high-asset divorce make experience and strategic planning far more important.
How to Choose High-Net-Worth Divorce Lawyers
Illinois is an “equitable division” state. This means that assets are divided equitably or fairly, but not always equally. While some assets are quite simple to divide, assets like businesses or high-net-worth financial holdings are more complex. This is why it is important to select a divorce attorney who is experienced in high net worth divorce cases and who can provide intelligent solutions.
When evaluating a divorce lawyer for a high net worth case, consider whether they have experience with:
• Executive compensation (RSUs, stock options, bonuses)
• Multiple real-estate holdings
• Business valuation and forensic accounting
• Tracing non-marital vs. marital assets
• International or out-of-state assets
• Tax planning implications
• Managing privacy concerns for public-facing clients
A majority of high-net-worth divorce cases involve reviewing the postnuptial agreement, prenuptial agreement, and other documentation signed during the marriage. Careful valuation of assets and accounting may not be simple, but it does help avoid disputes and a lengthy divorce process. With the right high-net-worth divorce lawyer, you can expect a less daunting experience.
How are High-Net-Worth Divorces Different?
In high-asset matters, the complexity rarely comes from the divorce law itself, but from the financial structures involved. These cases often require collaboration with financial experts, CPAs, business valuators, and sometimes private investigators to trace hidden or dissipated assets.
Illinois divorce laws are largely similar, regardless of the financial means of the parties involved. However, there is more on the line in a high-net-worth case. There are three key areas where high-net-worth cases differ:
• Higher chance of litigation — These cases are more likely to involve disputes over valuation, lifestyle maintenance, or asset division.
• Spousal support — High income levels may push maintenance above guideline calculations.
• Complexity of property and assets — Business shares, trusts, investment accounts, real-estate portfolios, and inherited assets often require forensic analysis.
Executive Compensation Considerations
Executives frequently receive RSUs, stock options, bonuses, deferred compensation, and profit-sharing plans. These assets must be valued correctly, considering vesting schedules, tax implications, and whether they are tied to performance.
Benefits of a High-Net-Worth Divorce Lawyer
A high-net-worth divorce attorney can help in several key areas:
- Selecting the right professionals to value businesses
- Assessing which property is considered marital property
- Planning for tax consequences
- Understanding your financial situation
- Protecting your interests
- Determining appropriate spousal support
- Working toward an amicable resolution during settlement negotiations by means of mediation or the collaborative law process
- Reviewing complex compensation packages and coordinating with financial advisors
- Identifying hidden assets or unusual financial transfers
- Developing a long-term strategy to ensure financial stability post-divorce
Frequently Asked Questions About High-Net-Worth Divorce Attorneys
Experience with business valuation, executive compensation, real estate portfolios, forensic accounting, and high-asset negotiation strategy is essential.
No. Many couples prefer mediation, the collaborative law process or negotiated settlements to maintain privacy and reduce litigation risk.
Lawyers often work with forensic accountants, subpoenas, and financial tracing tools to uncover irregular transfers or concealed funds.
With substantial assets at stake, choosing an attorney with the right financial insight, negotiation strength, and experience can meaningfully influence your long-term financial outcome.
Set Up a Consultation with Conniff & Keleher
Our high-net-worth divorce lawyers can help you navigate the intricacies of divorce where there are substantial assets at stake, and we always have your best interests in mind. Contact us today to set up a consultation.
