How Are Stocks And Investments Divided During Divorce?

During divorce, your property and financial matters are likely to come under the microscope. All your property — including stocks, stock options and investment accounts — must be identified, valued and, if appropriate, divided fairly.

Under Georgia’s equitable distribution approach to property division, how your stocks and investments are allocated will depend on your individual circumstances. There are many possibilities for accomplishing this division. If the stocks can be readily liquidated, the proceeds may be divided between you and your spouse. If they can’t, the shares themselves may be transferred or their value may be offset with other property.

Understanding Restricted Stocks

Like 401(k)s, stocks and stock options are often part of an employee compensation package. Corporations often offer employees bonuses in the form of restricted stocks. While these bonuses may seem lucrative, they typically include a provision that the employee remain at the company for a certain amount of time or else the stocks become worthless. In some cases, the employee may have to stay through retirement to reap the benefits.

Because restricted stocks aren’t guaranteed, it’s virtually impossible to value and divide them. Nonetheless, they may still factor into the overarching picture of asset division.

Do you have further questions?

Dividing assets like restricted stock units can be a complex process. Understanding your rights and the process at hand may be as simple as checking out our Divorce FAQ page to learn more about property division and other divorce topics.

Get Knowledgeable Guidance On These Complicated Issues

As you can see, dealing with stocks and investments during divorce can be complicated. By speaking with a qualified lawyer at Family Lawyers of Atlanta, you can rest assured that your property rights are in good hands.

As an Atlanta metro-based law firm devoted solely to family law, we handle all types of divorce cases, including high-conflict and high-asset cases. Our attorney can help you navigate the complex property issues that go along with these cases. To get started, call 404-418-7777 or send us an email.

Evening and weekend appointments are available at our main office in Roswell or any of our other conveniently located Georgia offices in Atlanta, Marietta, Duluth or Snellville.