Montgomery County, PA, Lawyers Handling Divorce for Business Owners
Divorce Solutions for Business Owners in Montgomery County, PA
Running a business comes with many challenges, but divorce proceedings as a business owner can add layers of complexity to an already difficult situation. From spousal support disputes to custody arrangements and the division of business assets, business owners face unique obstacles when ending their marriages.
For unparalleled support in navigating divorce proceedings as a business owner in Montgomery County, PA, turn to the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C. With over 25 years of experience, Sheryl R. Rentz is a distinguished negotiator and litigator renowned for her adept handling of complex legal and financial matters. Our firm is rated Superb by Avvo and offers free initial consultations to discuss your unique situation.
Call a Montgomery County divorce lawyer at (610) 645-0100 to schedule a free consultation about your case today.
“I own numerous businesses and I wanted to retain ownership and control of all of them. Sheryl hired business valuator and I was not required to sell any of my businesses.”
- Business Owner in Chester County, PA
Spousal Support Challenges for Business Owners
Maintaining a healthy marriage while running a business can be particularly challenging due to the demands of business ownership. Long hours, financial stress, and disagreements over the direction of the business can strain relationships and contribute to marital discord.
When divorce becomes inevitable, determining spousal support can be contentious, especially if one spouse relies on the income the business generates. Busy schedules and high stress levels may make it difficult to negotiate fair support arrangements, leading to prolonged legal battles and increased animosity between spouses.
Custody and Parenting Issues
Business owners often have demanding schedules and responsibilities that can complicate custody arrangements and parenting plans. Juggling business obligations with parenting duties can be challenging, especially when both spouses are heavily involved in a business. Disagreements over custody schedules and the allocation of parenting time may arise, exacerbating tensions between divorcing spouses.
Additionally, the irregular hours and travel requirements associated with business ownership can make maintaining consistency and stability for children difficult, complicating custody arrangements.
Understanding Business Valuations
Pennsylvania follows the principle of equitable distribution of marital assets. The principle of equitable division means that the court will fairly divide any business assets accumulated during the marriage between the spouses, regardless of which spouse owns or operates the business. This applies regardless of fault in the divorce, meaning that even if one spouse contributed more to the business or was solely responsible for its success, the court will still consider it marital property subject to division.
For business owners, a central aspect of property division is the business valuation. Business valuations are complex processes that include assessing the worth of the business based on various factors, including:
- Length of the marriage and any prior marriages.
- Each spouse’s age, health, income, and financial needs.
- Contributions to education, career, and homemaking.
- Future earning potential and financial circumstances.
- Tax implications and expenses related to dividing assets.
- Custody arrangements for minor children.
Valuing a business is essential for equitable property division in divorce proceedings. Business valuations may be conducted by financial experts or forensic accountants who specialize in evaluating business assets and determining their fair market value.
Options for Business Owners Post-Divorce
Once the value of the business is determined, business owners must decide how to handle the business post-divorce. There are several options available, including:
- Buyout: One spouse buys out the other’s share of the business, allowing them to retain ownership and control.
- Co-ownership: Spouses continue to co-own and operate the business together despite their divorce.
- Sale of the business: The business is sold, and the proceeds are then divided between the spouses according to their respective interests.
Each option has its own implications and considerations, including tax consequences, financial obligations, and the long-term viability of the business.
How a Your Montgomery County Divorce Lawyer Can Help
Dealing with a divorce can be daunting for anyone, but it can be particularly challenging for business owners. From negotiating spousal support agreements to representing your interests in business valuation proceedings, a skilled attorney can help you achieve a fair and equitable divorce settlement by making sure your rights and interests are protected.
To successfully navigate the complexities of a high-asset divorce, it is also vital that your divorce lawyer has a deep understanding of your community and local laws. Montgomery County attorney Sheryl R. Rentz can offer exceptional guidance and support throughout the process.
Connect with the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C.
If you’re a business owner and are facing divorce in Montgomery County, you can rely on the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C. to fight tirelessly for your interests, both in and out of the courtroom.
With a reputation for straightforwardness and thorough preparation, Sheryl R. Rentz provides the peace of mind needed to make difficult life decisions with confidence.
Contact us at (610) 645-0100 to schedule your free consultation today.
We know your problems are unique & special.
Call us, we will listen.
(610) 645-0100