Many people going through a high-value separation often wonder, “How long does a high-asset divorce take in Austin?” The timeline of a high-net-worth divorce case can vary significantly, but working with a knowledgeable Austin high-net-worth divorce attorney can help streamline the process.
Why Choose Us
At the Law Office of Ben Carrasco, PLLC, we’re a board-certified and trial-tested team of award-winning family law attorneys who are focused on delivering results in your high-asset divorce case.
Factors That Can Affect the Timeline of a High-Net-Worth Divorce Case
With a divorce rate of 2.1 per 1,000 residents in Texas and 2.4 per 1,000 residents in the United States, it’s interesting to note that the divorce rate among high-asset couples in the country is lower, just 1.8 per 1,000 residents.
Unlike standard divorces, high-asset divorce cases involve complex financial portfolios and detailed asset valuation under the heightened scrutiny of Texas’s high-net-worth divorce laws that can alter the timeline. As a result, several variables can influence how quickly or slowly a case might progress. They include:
- Complexity of AssetsThe size and diversity of the marital estate can play a major role, as complicated financial holdings, including international investments or closely held businesses, require detailed appraisal and sometimes the involvement of financial professionals.An Austin high-net-worth divorce attorney can make sure all assets are properly identified and valued in accordance with high-net-worth divorce laws, a process that can take several months.
- Contested vs. Uncontested DivorceAn uncontested divorce, where both spouses agree on all major points, including the division of property, could be resolved fairly quickly. In contrast, contested high-net-worth divorce cases often involve disputes over asset division or business interests, which could take up to a year or more to resolve.
- Discovery and Financial DisclosuresDiscovery is typically the longest phase in every high-net-worth divorce case, as both spouses must provide a full financial disclosure, including tax records, bank statements, a full accounting of digital accounts, and business valuations. Hidden or complicated assets can prolong this stage, but an experienced Austin high-net-worth divorce attorney can uncover and properly document all relevant assets.
- Professional InvolvementMany high-asset divorces require accountants, appraisers, tax, and business valuation professionals to help determine the value of all the assets so that they’re distributed equitably. This stage can add several months, but it’s essential when following Texas’s high-net-worth divorce laws.
While every case is unique, many high-net-worth divorce cases in Austin can take anywhere from six months to over a year, with highly contested disputes and cases with hidden assets taking even longer. It’s also important to note that the variables above can be investigated simultaneously with the help of your lawyer.
Understanding the requirements of high-net-worth divorce laws and working with the right legal team can help set realistic expectations and avoid surprises.
Hire a High-Net-Worth Divorce Lawyer in Austin: Local Legal Guidance Offers an Advantage
When you need to hire a high-net-worth divorce lawyer, the Law Office of Ben Carrasco, PLLC, has the local knowledge needed to help move your case forward.
We regularly advocate for clients in the Travis County Civil and Family Courts Facility and the Williamson County Justice Center, allowing us to anticipate challenges and streamline the timing to present a strong high-net-worth divorce case.
Contact our firm to set up a consultation today.
