Divorce is an emotionally and financially draining experience.  Obtaining a fair and reasonable settlement becomes far more complex when a spouse owns a closely-held business or has other investments.  Many owners use their company to pay for personal expenses, and discovery of these expenses may dramatically alter financial data that is the foundation for a sound business valuation. Attorneys can find themselves deluged with complex financial data which must be reviewed, assembled and presented in a clear, concise and convincing manner for effective client advocacy.

In addition, most marriages that end in divorce are in trouble long before the divorce petition is filed.  This fact provides ample opportunity for either spouse to hide assets and income.  The more animosity there is in the relationship, the greater the chance that income and assets are being hidden.

MKS&H’s professionals conduct an in-depth examination of the investments and/or company records using analytical techniques and sophisticated data analysis software to ferret our unusual transactions.  Additionally, we use our network of private investigators to obtain corporate and personal background information.

Once the true nature of the sales, expenses and assets are determined, our valuation professionals can assist in establishing an opinion of value based on nationally recognized valuation standards.  In addition, we can assist you in analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of opposing valuation expert reports in developing deposition questions and strategies and in determining the reasonableness of settlement offers, both in terms of the amount and structure of the settlement.

Which situations warrant hiring MKS&H?

• When a closely held business is involved
• When there is financial complexity
• When there are claims of separate property
• When a premarital agreement exists