Preparing for Your High Asset Divorce

 Posted on July 21, 2026 in Property Division

All divorces are legally and emotionally complex, but high asset divorces are even more so. This is due, in part, to the separation, valuation, and distribution of high-value assets, but there are often other factors at play as well. Maybe the earning potential of one spouse is much lower than the other. Maybe the assets came from a family-owned business that may be placed at risk during divorce.

Backed by more than 100 years of collective legal experience, The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C. has the experience, knowledge, and resources you need for a high-asset divorce. Our DuPage County high asset divorce attorneys are available to help with your high asset divorce. Whatever the reasons may be for the anxiety you feel about the future, careful and effective preparation can help ease some of the burden.

Should You Try to "Win" a High Net Worth Divorce?

In divorce, emotions often run high and change throughout any given day, week, or month. Old wounds or arguments can be unearthed or rehashed. New issues can arise. Even an amicable divorce can quickly turn contentious, sometimes without notice.

For this reason, you should always hope for the best and then plan for the worst in a high asset divorce. Hire a high-quality divorce attorney, try to avoid giving in to the desire to "win" your divorce, and be ready to disengage if you sense an argument brewing or your spouse becomes combative. If necessary, limit contact to avoid unnecessary arguments.

A spouse who refuses to compromise may push the case further into litigation, adding more cost and delay. In the end, both people can walk away with less money and more stress, even if one side feels they came out ahead in the argument. Settling out of court can help avoid these costs. Mediation and negotiation are often cheaper and faster than a trial for a high net worth divorce.

What Assets Are Part of the Marital Estate in a High Asset Divorce?

When it comes to determining a fair divorce settlement, you need to know two main things: what you have and what you want. What you have will tell you what your marital estate is worth. You can determine this by gathering as much documentation as possible. Some of the most valuable or treasured assets in your marital estate may include:

• Residential, vacation, or investment properties
• Vehicles registered to you or your spouse
• Investment accounts
• Bank accounts
• Retirement accounts
• Businesses
• Artwork
• Jewelry
• Any other assets/valuables you or your spouse may own

Knowing what you want will give you a goal to work toward. Of course, what you want and what is considered equitable (or what you can afford) may be worlds apart.

First, consider if you can reasonably afford to maintain the assets you wish to acquire in the divorce. If, for example, you want the house but cannot reasonably afford the mortgage after the divorce, keeping it may not be an option. Your attorney can advise you on other options and help you understand any tax implications that may affect the distribution of your marital property.

Should I Expect to Pay Alimony in a High Net Worth Divorce?

Alimony, known as spousal maintenance in Illinois, is common in high net worth divorces. When one spouse earns significantly more than the other, or when one spouse gave up career opportunities to support the household, a judge may order maintenance payments.

Illinois law sets out a formula for calculating maintenance based on both spouses' incomes, but judges can deviate from the formula in cases involving substantial assets or unusual income sources (750 ILCS 5/504).

Bonuses, stock options, and business ownership can all affect how much maintenance a spouse owes or receives. The length of the marriage also plays a role, since longer marriages often lead to longer maintenance terms. If you are unsure whether you will pay or receive maintenance, a lawyer can review your finances and help you understand what to expect.

Do You Need an Appraisal in a High Net Worth Divorce?

Illinois follows equitable distribution rules, which means marital property must be divided fairly, though not always equally. Before property can be divided, both spouses need an accurate picture of what everything is worth. A professional valuation may be needed for certain complex assets, like a business or a piece of real estate.

Without a proper appraisal, one spouse may walk away with far less than a fair share. A qualified appraiser can help make sure that property values are based on solid evidence rather than guesswork.

When Is Forensic Accounting Necessary for a Divorce in 2026?

Forensic accounting becomes necessary when finances are particularly complicated or when one spouse suspects the other is hiding assets. This is common in marriages involving business ownership, multiple properties, or overseas accounts. A forensic accountant can trace income, uncover hidden bank accounts, and identify property that was left off financial disclosures.

This process can also reveal whether a spouse transferred money to a friend or family member to keep it out of the divorce. Forensic accounting can take time, but it often proves essential for reaching a fair settlement, especially when large sums of money are involved.

Contact a DuPage County, IL High Net Worth Divorce Lawyer

Of all the preparations you can make in your high asset divorce, hiring an experienced, high-quality divorce attorney is one of the most critical. With the right attorney, you can find assets that may be hidden, ensure proper valuation of your marital estate, and secure an advocate that will fight for your rights and your best interests.

At The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C., we maintain close communication with clients and provide personalized services to ensure you know just how dedicated we are to your best interests. Get the quality representation you deserve. Call us at 630-462-9500 to schedule a consultation with one of our Wheaton, IL high asset divorce attorneys.