High Net Worth Divorce

At Adams, Luka & Benton P.A., we understand that high net worth divorce involves far more than the typical dissolution of a marriage. Individuals with substantial assets, business ownership interests, or complex investment portfolios require a level of legal representation that is precise, strategic, and deeply experienced. Our firm has handled some of the most sophisticated divorce cases in Orlando and the surrounding areas. Whether you are a business owner, investor, executive, or professional, our attorneys are equipped to safeguard your financial interests during every stage of the divorce process.

Divorcing with wealth is never straightforward. The process can quickly become adversarial when a high net worth is at stake. You need a legal team that knows how to manage the intersection of divorce law and high finance. We combine our litigation skill, financial acumen, and experience with high-value marital estates to ensure your rights are fully protected under Florida law.

While there is no formal dollar figure that defines a high net worth divorce, cases involving substantial assets, usually in excess of $ 2 million, often fall into this category. These may include real estate portfolios, professional practices, investment accounts, retirement savings, luxury assets, and equity in privately held companies. One or both spouses may also have significant income streams, business interests, or generational wealth that complicate the divorce proceedings.

High net worth divorces often raise unique legal questions, such as the enforceability of prenuptial agreements, classification of complex income sources, and valuation of intangible assets. In these cases, a basic understanding of the law is not enough. Your attorney must also understand business finance, tax implications, and the intricacies of asset distribution.

Florida is an equitable distribution state. That means marital assets and debts are to be divided in a manner that is fair, not necessarily equal. In high net worth divorces, that standard becomes particularly complex. Couples may have a mixture of marital and non-marital property, shared business interests, or assets acquired through trust or inheritance. The court will look at a wide range of factors, including the duration of the marriage, each spouse's contributions, and the economic circumstances of each party.

Our attorneys know how to build strong arguments to ensure that your interests are fairly represented during the division of marital property. We bring in financial experts, forensic accountants, and appraisers when needed to produce credible, evidence-backed valuations of even the most complex holdings.

One of the most contested issues in high asset divorces involves the division of ownership in businesses and professional practices. When one or both spouses own a company, whether it's a medical practice, a law firm, a real estate development company, or another enterprise, the business must be properly valued. This includes not only physical assets and profits, but also goodwill, client lists, branding, and projected future earnings.

Business valuation can be challenging when there is limited liquidity or when the business is dependent on one spouse's skills or credentials. We work with respected valuation experts to determine an accurate picture of the business's worth. If necessary, we fight to preserve your control or share in the enterprise by negotiating equitable buyouts or offsetting asset transfers.

Investment portfolios often include stocks, bonds, mutual funds, cryptocurrency, and other holdings. When these are held in brokerage accounts, retirement plans, or offshore entities, the identification and valuation process becomes more complicated. We conduct thorough asset tracing to determine whether these investments are considered marital or separate property.

Additionally, executives and high-level professionals may receive deferred compensation, such as restricted stock units (RSUs), stock options, performance bonuses, and golden parachutes. These benefits may not vest until years after the divorce is finalized. We ensure these types of compensation are addressed appropriately, so you do not walk away from the marriage with less than your fair share.

In high net worth divorces, the marital estate may include multiple homes, investment properties, commercial real estate, and vacation residences. Each of these must be evaluated independently, with consideration for mortgages, rental income, tax obligations, and future marketability. Whether it's a lakefront home in Windermere or a condominium in downtown Orlando, we ensure that real estate is appraised accurately and divided in a way that supports your long-term financial security.

Luxury items such as art collections, fine jewelry, antiques, boats and vehicles can also become sources of dispute. These items often hold sentimental as well as financial value. We work to obtain credible appraisals and handle negotiations with the goal of achieving a resolution that reflects both legal and financial fairness.

Alimony is often a central issue in high net worth divorces. The paying spouse may be concerned about long-term financial commitments, while the receiving spouse may worry about maintaining a lifestyle they have grown accustomed to. Florida courts take many factors into account when determining whether to award alimony, including the standard of living during the marriage, the length of the marriage, and each party's financial resources.

We develop tailored arguments and evidence to support or challenge alimony requests, based on a deep understanding of income structures, financial need, and statutory guidelines. In many cases, our attorneys work with financial planners to create structured settlement options that minimize tax liability while still fulfilling support obligations.

High net worth clients often have reputational concerns during divorce proceedings. Business reputations, professional relationships, and media exposure may all be at risk if the case becomes public. At Adams, Luka & Benton P.A., we handle these matters with the utmost discretion. We explore out-of-court settlement options when appropriate, including private mediation and collaborative divorce, to help maintain your privacy. When litigation is necessary, we pursue protective orders to limit the disclosure of sensitive financial or personal information.

In many high asset marriages, a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement is in place. These agreements can significantly impact the outcome of a divorce by dictating how property is classified, divided, or excluded from marital assets. However, not all agreements are enforceable under Florida law. Our attorneys will review the terms of your agreement to determine its validity, challenge unfair provisions, or enforce those that protect your interests.

We are also available to assist high net worth individuals in drafting enforceable prenuptial and postnuptial agreements that reflect their current financial position and long-term goals.

A high net worth divorce does not end when the final order is signed. Post-divorce financial planning is just as important as the division of assets. Whether you are retaining real estate, receiving ongoing support payments, or navigating new tax responsibilities, we help clients manage the transition and position themselves for long-term financial stability.

In many cases, enforcement or modification of divorce orders may become necessary. Market conditions, income changes, or life events can affect the feasibility or fairness of an existing agreement. Our firm continues to represent high asset clients after their divorce is finalized, assisting with enforcement actions, asset compliance, or negotiated changes to support and property arrangements.

If you are facing divorce and have substantial assets, business interests, or complex financial holdings, you cannot afford to make mistakes. The decisions you make today will have long-lasting consequences for your wealth, your family, and your peace of mind. At Adams, Luka & Benton P.A., we are committed to delivering results that reflect your goals and protect your legacy.

Our attorneys take pride in guiding clients through high net worth divorce with confidence, transparency, and unwavering advocacy. From the first strategy session to the final order, you can trust that your case is in the hands of experienced professionals who understand what's at stake.

If you are considering divorce or have been served with papers and you know your financial situation is more complex than average, now is the time to act. Contact Adams, Luka & Benton P.A. today to schedule a confidential consultation. We will help you understand your rights, develop a strategic plan, and protect what matters most. Your financial future deserves nothing less than focused, expert legal representation.