Equitable Distribution

YOUR FAMILY'S FUTURE MATTERS!

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Protecting Your Assets

Equitable Distribution

One of the most challenging parts of any divorce is dividing property. From your home and retirement accounts to business interests and debt, everything you’ve built together now has to be untangled. At Hand & Toker, LLC, we guide clients through New Jersey’s equitable distribution process with clarity and precision, always working to protect what matters most to you.

We understand that the financial outcome of your divorce can impact your future for years to come. That’s why we take the time to understand your full financial picture and fight for a fair result.

Why Us?

You can trust our team at Hand & Toker to advocate passionately for your family’s best interests with expertise and care.

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What Is Equitable Distribution?

In New Jersey, the law requires equitable distribution of marital property during divorce. That doesn’t mean a strict 50/50 split; it means a fair division, based on several factors.

Equitable distribution applies to:

  • Assets acquired during the marriage
  • Property bought with marital funds
  • Retirement and pension accounts earned during the marriage
  • Debts incurred jointly
  • Businesses started or grown during the marriage

The court’s goal is to divide marital property in a way that reflects each spouse’s contributions and financial needs.

Marital Property vs. Separate Property

Not all property is subject to division. A key part of equitable distribution is determining what is marital property and what is separate property.

Things can get murky if separate property becomes commingled, for example, using inherited money to renovate the marital home. We help untangle these complex issues and ensure your rights are fully represented.

Marital Property

Anything acquired by either spouse during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title. This includes homes, cars, income, retirement benefits, and shared debts.

Separate Property

Typically includes assets one spouse owned before the marriage, inheritances, gifts from third parties, and anything protected by a valid prenuptial agreement.

How the Court Decides

When dividing marital property, New Jersey courts consider a wide range of factors, including:

  • The length of the marriage
  • The age and health of both spouses
  • Each spouse’s income, assets, and debts
  • The standard of living established during the marriage
  • Contributions to education or career advancement (including supporting a spouse through school)
  • Contributions to acquiring, preserving, or increasing the value of property
  • Any agreements between the parties (such as a prenup or postnup)

Courts have broad discretion, which makes legal representation especially important. Our attorneys present the facts clearly and persuasively to help secure a favorable result—whether through negotiation or litigation.

Hidden Assets and Financial Misconduct

Unfortunately, not every divorce is transparent. If you suspect your spouse is hiding income, undervaluing a business, or manipulating finances, you need a legal team that knows how to uncover the truth.

We work with forensic accountants, valuation experts, and financial analysts to trace hidden assets and ensure an honest accounting. Whether you’re facing offshore accounts, cryptocurrency holdings, or complex investment portfolios, we’re equipped to handle high-stakes property division.

Dividing the Family Home

The marital home is often the most emotionally charged asset in a divorce. In some cases, one spouse may wish to stay in the home (especially if children are involved), while the other is bought out. In other cases, the home is sold and the proceeds are split.

We help clients evaluate all options, both financial and emotional—and pursue the best solution for their future stability.

Business and Professional Practices

If either spouse owns a business or professional practice, it can be subject to equitable distribution. Determining the value of a business—and how to divide that value—requires careful legal and financial work.

At Hand & Toker, we have experience handling business valuations, goodwill assessments, and buyout negotiations. Our goal is to protect your financial interests while minimizing disruption to your livelihood.

Protect Your Financial Future

Dividing marital property is more than just a math problem—it’s a complex legal process that requires strategy, negotiation, and deep knowledge of New Jersey family law.

At Hand & Toker, LLC, we help you understand your rights, identify what’s truly fair, and walk you through every step with confidence. Rest assured, it doesn’t matter if your case is straightforward or complex; we’ll work to ensure that you leave your marriage with the financial footing you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can protect your interests during equitable distribution.

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