Equitable Distribution Lawyer in York, PA
During your marriage, you made contributions to building your financial life together. Now that the marriage is dissolving, it’s important to ensure you get fair assets for your financial future. Most assets acquired during the marriage, with a few exceptions, are subject to equitable distribution — the process of dividing marital assets and debts during divorce proceedings.
With MPL Law Firm as your equitable distribution attorney, we will negotiate to reach a favorable division of assets or represent your interests in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Learn how we can guide you — both in and out of court.
Understanding Equitable Distribution in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law outlines an equitable division of marital property. Unlike community property states that split assets equally (50/50), our courts divide marital assets and debts equitably, attempting a fair distribution based on the specific circumstances of the case.
You may be able to retain some assets based on a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement if there is such a document in the relationship. Otherwise, your divorce settlement agreement will eventually outline the division of property, which could include but is not limited to:
- Real estate
- Bank accounts
- Income
- Stocks
- Businesses
- Royalties
- Investments
- Other assets
Increases in the value of nonmarital property are also considered for equitable distribution.
At MPL Law, our specialized knowledge of Pennsylvania’s equitable distribution laws and court procedures can help protect your assets in divorce so that you receive your fair share.
Factors Involved in Equitable Distribution
Family law is complex, and many factors go into deciding who gets what after a divorce.
If there’s a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, it will have an impact on how property is divided. If no such documents exist, your property division lawyer at MPL Law will negotiate with the other party. Mediation may be used to help both parties reach an agreement. However, if the parties are unable to settle, a divorce master may be required. This court-appointed attorney serves as a bridge between the parties and the court to resolve contested divorce issues like property division.
While marital misconduct or fault may influence other aspects of the divorce, like alimony, these actions that serve as grounds for ending the marriage are not taken into consideration during equitable distribution.
Pennsylvania courts consider the following factors and other considerations when determining equitable distribution:
- How long you’ve been married
- Previous marriages
- Your ages
- Income
- Health
- Tax implications
- Amount of nonmarital assets
- Child custody
- Prenuptial agreements
- Standard of living during marriage
- Employability of both parties
- Contributions to the increased earning power of the other party
How MPL Law Can Help With Equitable Distribution
Let the experienced team at MPL Law serve as your asset division lawyers. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is an important factor in ensuring you get a fair portion of marital assets. We are here to guide you through the equitable distribution process, which includes:
- Identifying and classifying assets
- Helping you gather all necessary documentation
- Negotiating with the other party
- Presenting your case effectively in court if needed
Our goal is to help our clients protect their financial interests and ensure a stable financial future after the divorce.
Why Trust MPL Law With Your Equitable Distribution Matters?
Whether you have significant marital assets or small amounts of property, it’s important to consult with an attorney who can represent you in court to ensure you don’t face financial distress after your divorce.
At MPL Law, you are more than a case — you are a person. We know that divorce proceedings can have a dramatic impact on your personal and financial well-being. Whether negotiating with your former spouse or taking your case to court, we use our in-depth knowledge of your situation and the court system to find the best overall solution.
You can expect transparent legal advice in easy-to-understand language as we discuss your options and pursue achievable outcomes.
Schedule a Consultation to Discuss Equitable Distribution
If you have a complex financial situation, or you and your spouse own considerable property or have significant debts, reach out to a qualified equitable distribution lawyer in York, PA. Our attorneys can work through complex financial issues and bring a sense of understanding to the process.
To speak with an equitable distribution attorney, contact the York, PA, offices of MPL Law.