Montgomery County Business Valuation Lawyer
Business Valuations and Your Divorce
A recent survey found that about 30 percent of Americans report they have started at least one small business in their lifetime. An additional 31 percent of Americans report they have considered starting their own small business at some juncture in their lives. Small businesses (defined as having fewer than 500 employees) are an important part of our country’s economy, and generate a significant number of jobs in the United States. Approximately half of all Americans are employed by a small business.
In a recent study, it was estimated that about 40 percent of all marriages in the U.S. ended in divorce. With so many Americans involved in small businesses and likely dealing with divorce, there may be questions about what happens to a small business during a Pennsylvania divorce.
What is Business Valuation?
A business valuation is a detailed, analytical process that determines the estimated economic value of a small business. The strength and value of a small business relies on its ability to create income, both current and future, as well as its unique strengths. There are other factors as well. Having a clear business valuation of a family’s business while two parties are going through a divorce in Montgomery County, PA is essential.
"I own numerous businesses... Sheryl hired business valuator and I was not required to sell any of my businesses."
- Business Owner in Chester County, PA
Why Should I Hire a Montgomery County Business Valuation Attorney?
All too often, however, in litigious divorces the spouse that operates the business may attempt to withhold financial profit information regarding the business from the other spouse; perhaps by exaggerating a downturn in business, hoping the other spouse will accept less than a fair share of the value of the small business. Conversely, the spouse that doesn’t operate the small business may not be aware of the true value of the business and its ability to make money and insist on receiving an unreasonably large share. Sometimes, hiring an independent person to conduct a business valuation is the only way to settle a contentious battle regarding a small family business.
Why is an Accurate Business Valuation Important in Pennsylvania?
There are many questions surrounding a family business during the divorce process and they can be complicated. Since the marriage is ending, what happens to the business now? Does one spouse keep the business, or does it have to be sold? What about the value of copyrights and trademarks? Does the spouse that operated the business have a legal right to a larger share? If the small business was begun by one spouse before the marriage, who is entitled to it now? An accurate business valuation can help answer these questions and clarify other issues by presenting the facts and details of the value of the small business to both parties and their respective attorneys. This allows the parties to negotiate an agreement based on an objective and clear picture of their businesses’ financial and legal situation.
Resolving Your Divorce with Efficiency
Divorce is often an emotionally draining experience that is fraught with complications, particularly if a small business is involved. With so much at stake, you need an experienced Montgomery County, PA divorce financial issues attorney with legal and financial knowledge to help ensure that you receive the portion of the business that you deserve. The lawyers at the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C. are dedicated to helping individuals with all aspects, legal and financial, of a Pennsylvania divorce. We will consult with experienced and knowledgeable professionals to make sure that the business evaluation is accurate.
Every situation is different, and that’s why it is crucial to have a skilled Montgomery County, Pennsylvania divorce lawyer to ensure your share of the marital assets is protected. Call our office today at (610) 645-0100 for a free telephone consultation.
Additional Information
- Keeping the Family Business Safe From Divorce Proceedings
- If You Liquidate a Family Business, How Are Assets Divided?
- Financial Uncertainty and Business Valuations
- How a Postnuptial Can Protect Your Family Business
- If You Own a Business in Pennsylvania, Consider a Pre-Marital Agreement before Marriage
We know your problems are unique & special.
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(610) 645-0100
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