Baton Rouge Property Division Lawyer

Baton Rouge Property Division Attorney

There is nothing truly more complicated and emotionally challenging than a divorce. Whether you want this situation to occur or not, it is important that you hire a Baton Rouge property division lawyer who can ensure you and your assets are protected throughout the entire process. We understand that what you have worked so hard for during your marriage is precious to you, and we aim to assist you in protecting what is yours through a strategic legal manner.

Baton Rouge Family Lawyer

At Cascio Law Firm, our lead attorney has been practicing law for more than 20 years. He is adept with legal research, strategizing, and advocating for his clients, and working to protect them during the complications of divorce. A graduate from the law school at Louisiana State University, attorney Chris Cascio understands the nuances of divorce in the Pelican State.

Our team has handled countless cases at the Family Court of East Baton Rouge Parish on North Boulevard in Baton Rouge and devotes our time and attention to the individual needs of each client we serve. As a trusted Baton Rouge Family Lawyer, we use our knowledge and experience to ensure you have the confidence you need to navigate your divorce.

How Property Is Divided in a Baton Rouge Divorce

The U.S. sees a total of 3.8 million family law cases a year, many of which involve divorce and property division.

Louisiana operates as a community property state, meaning that, should you and your spouse be able to reach an agreement on property division on your own, the court will become responsible for dividing all your assets, debts, and properties equally between you and your spouse. Keep in mind that, while the judge will try to split the property in an equal manner, it may not work out to a perfect 50/50 division.

For a fair and equitable division to take place, all assets and debts owned by the couple need to be inventoried and valued. In a Baton Rouge divorce, there are two main forms of property. These include:

• Shared, community, or marital property: This property includes all debts and assets that either spouse earned during the time of the marriage. It can typically include the family home, other real estate holdings such as a vacation property or timeshare, vehicles, home furnishings, jewelry, art, collectibles, business assets, rental properties, and personal forms of property.
• Separate property: This property includes any assets or debts that either spouse acquired prior to the marriage. For example, if one spouse bought and owned the family home before the marriage, and the other spouse never signed onto the mortgage after the marriage, then it remains the first spouse’s separate property. Any property that was gifted to or inherited by one of the spouses, even during the marriage, remains separate.

In a Baton Rouge divorce, it is wise to review your case and determine what might be considered separate property and what will be included in the division. At Cascio Law Firm, we are here to do whatever is in our power to protect the things you have worked so hard to acquire over the years.

How to Protect Your Assets

There are several ways you can protect your assets in a divorce. At Cascio Law Firm, we can help you understand your options.

If you signed a premarital or postmarital agreement, this can play a huge role in your property division. Nearly 39% of couples who sign prenups feel more financially secure in their future. You may also find it beneficial to keep your finances separate when you marry, as this can allow the property division process to go much smoothly and easily than in cases when property is held in joint accounts.

FAQs

What Should I Do If I Believe My Spouse Is Hiding Assets?

Across the United States, nearly 40% of couples admit to some kind of financial infidelity, including hiding assets during a divorce. If you believe that your spouse is hiding assets, it is essential that you speak with a property division lawyer right away. Your lawyer can review all financial records and help determine whether your spouse is, in fact, hiding necessary assets.

What Should I Avoid Doing in a Property Division Case?

There are several actions and behaviors to avoid during a property division case. First, it is essential that you do not try to hide assets during the case. While this might seem tempting, doing so will hurt your case in the long run. Additionally, it is important that you work with an attorney. If you do not, you could lose out on your share of certain assets.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Property Division Lawyer?

The cost of hiring a property division lawyer is impacted by several different factors. The experience of the lawyer, the complexity of the assets, and whether the matter is litigated in court all play a role in determining the costs you could incur. To better understand how much your property division process could cost, share the details of your case with an attorney so they can provide an estimate to you.

What Factors Will a Judge Take into Account When Dividing Property?

During the property division portion of a Baton Rouge divorce, the judge involved in your case will take several factors into account. These factors include any child custody arrangements that may have already been decided, as well as any child support obligations of either spouse, or the financial needs of the children. The judge will also consider the value of all marital property to determine equitable distribution.

Hire a Property Division Lawyer

If you are facing divorce and property division in Baton Rouge, you need to hire a property division lawyer as quickly as possible. These are strenuous cases, and trying to approach property division on your own can spell disaster. Instead, put your trust in the team at Cascio Law Firm. We are here to protect your interests, uncover any hidden assets, and ultimately fight for the outcome you most deserve. Contact our offices today to schedule a consultation.