San Diego Complex, High-Asset Divorce Attorney

Are You in Need of a San Diego High-Asset Divorce Attorney?

High-asset divorce cases are never simple. When significant wealth, investments, business interests, and valuable property are on the line, divorce becomes a complex financial and legal undertaking. For professionals, entrepreneurs, executives, or spouses of high-net-worth individuals, protecting your assets and securing a fair outcome demands strategic planning and skilled legal guidance.

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., our approach is grounded in oppressive advocacy. Whether you’re navigating sensitive financial disclosures, business valuations, or asset protection, our firm provides the personalized attention and strategic insight high-net-worth clients expect.

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Why Choose Us Over Other High-Asset Divorce Lawyers in San Diego?

Amelia J. Mattis is known for her tenacity, compassionate client care, and courtroom skills. She delivers the outstanding client-centered advocacy that complex divorce cases demand. Here’s why so many clients in the San Diego area have come to trust our firm.

• Chosen by Expertise.com as one of the Best Divorce Lawyers in San Diego, based on her qualifications, client reviews, and consistent performance in family law.
• Included among the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in California by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys, highlighting her reputation in complex divorce matters.
• Honored as Lawyer of the Year by the American Institute of Legal Professionals, a recognition reserved for attorneys demonstrating outstanding professional achievement.
• Recognized as San Diego Super Lawyers Rising Star, based on peer reviews and independent research.
• Respected in the San Diego legal community for her compassionate, client-focused approach to high-conflict, high-asset divorce cases.

Your Assets Deserve Skilled Protection

From business interests to investment portfolios, we know what’s at stake. Call (858) 328-4400 for experienced high-asset divorce guidance in San Diego.

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How a San Diego High-Asset Divorce Attorney Can Help

Attorney Amelia Mattis is not only your legal advocate; she is your strategic partner. Whether we’re negotiating an agreement or preparing for litigation, we keep your long-term financial security and emotional well-being in focus.

Our firm provides:

• Thorough asset identification and classification of marital vs. separate property.
• Valuation of businesses, professional practices, and real estate.
• Engagement with financial experts, forensic accountants, or appraisers as needed.
• Discovery to uncover hidden or offshore assets, including subpoenas and depositions.
• Preparation for trial or negotiation, depending on your goals.
• Sensitivity to your privacy and the public nature of high-profile divorces.

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What Makes a High-Asset Divorce Case?

A high-asset divorce is defined by the complexity and diversity of the marital estate. These cases typically involve multiple classes of property that require expert valuation, financial investigation, and careful legal strategy.

Common features of high-asset divorces include:

• Business ownership or professional practices
• Investment accounts and stock options (RSUs, restricted shares, etc.)
• Multiple real estate properties, including second homes and vacation rentals
• Pensions, 401(k)s, and IRAs
• Trusts and inheritance disputes
• Luxury items and collectibles (art, jewelry, boats, private memberships)
• Hidden or offshore assets

In these cases, identifying whether property is community or separate is rarely straightforward. We work closely with financial experts and forensic accountants to ensure a full and accurate picture of the marital estate is presented, and that our clients receive a fair share of assets or are protected from unfair claims.

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Prenuptial and Post-nuptial Agreements in High-Asset Divorce

A well-drafted prenuptial agreement (prenup) or post-nuptial agreement (postnup) can simplify a high-asset divorce by defining how property, income, and debts will be handled in the event of a separation.

These agreements can:

• Define what is separate property (owned before marriage or inherited)
• Set terms for spousal support (amount, duration, or waivers)
• Protect business interests or intellectual property
• Address how future earnings or investments will be classified
• Prevent lengthy litigation during divorce

However, not all prenups are enforceable. California courts will scrutinize agreements for:

• Fairness at the time of signing and enforcement
• Full and honest financial disclosure
• Independent legal representation for both parties
• No signs of coercion or undue pressure

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we review and enforce these agreements, as well as challenge provisions that violate public policy or were unfairly negotiated. If you have a prenup or postnup, it’s essential to have it reviewed early in the divorce process.

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How Is Spousal Support Determined?

Spousal support, also known as maintenance, is financial support paid by one spouse to the other during or after divorce. In high-asset cases, support calculations often move beyond the standard formulas due to the significant income levels involved.

Temporary (Pendente Lite) Support

Long-Term (Post-Judgment) Support

Final support orders depend on multiple statutory factors, including:

• Length of the marriage
• Standard of living during the marriage
• Earning capacity of each spouse
• Age and health
• Contributions to the other’s education or career
• Assets and debts assigned in the divorce
• Any history of domestic violence

High-income earners may be ordered to pay support beyond guideline amounts if necessary to maintain the lower-earning spouse’s lifestyle. Conversely, support may be reduced or denied if the recipient has ample assets or is underemployed by choice.

Support may also be modified or terminated after divorce due to significant changes in income, retirement, remarriage, or other relevant changes in circumstances. Attorney Mattis has successfully represented both payors and recipients in support modification hearings.

Make Informed Decisions With a Trusted Advocate

San Diego family law attorney Amelia J. Mattis brings clarity and strategy to complex property division. Call (858) 328-4400 to schedule a free consultation today.

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Types of Assets Divided in a San Diego High-Asset Divorce

California is a community property state, meaning that in general, assets acquired during the marriage are subject to equal division unless proven otherwise. In high-asset cases, this analysis is rarely simple. Assets may be co-mingled, structured across multiple accounts or entities, or held in trusts.

Businesses

Business ownership introduces valuation disputes, questions about separate vs. marital contributions, and long-term concerns about control and income.

• Corporations
• LLCs
• Partnerships
• Sole proprietorships

We work with valuation experts and forensic accountants to ensure a fair division or offset of value.

Professional Practices

Doctors, lawyers, therapists, consultants, and other licensed professionals often have practices that carry both tangible value and intangible goodwill.

• Law firms
• Medical practices
• Dental offices
• Financial advisory firms

These assets require expert valuation and detailed analysis of income potential.

Real Estate

Whether held jointly or separately, real estate often becomes one of the most valuable—and contested—assets in divorce.

• Primary residences
• Second homes or vacation property
• Rental properties
• Commercial property

We assist in determining market value, mortgage liabilities, and division or sale options.

Investment Portfolios, Stocks, and Bonds

Liquid investments may seem straightforward, but identifying separate vs. community portions, tracking contributions, and dividing tax liabilities are often complex.

• Brokerage accounts
• Mutual funds
• Stock options or RSUs (restricted stock units)
• Bonds and treasuries

We help ensure clarity and fairness when dividing short- and long-term investments.

Retirement Assets

• 401(k)s
• IRAs
• Pensions
• Deferred compensation plans
• Military and government retirement plans

We ensure Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) are properly prepared and submitted to avoid tax penalties and ensure legal compliance.

Trusts

Trusts can significantly complicate asset division. While some trusts are truly separate property, others are community property in disguise or have become co-mingled.

• Revocable or irrevocable trusts
• Living trusts
• Dynasty or generation-skipping trusts

We analyze the intent and structure of each trust to protect your rightful interest or defend against overreach.

Art and Collectibles

Some divorces involve non-liquid, high-value assets with deep emotional ties.

• Fine art
• Antiques
• Jewelry
• Wine collections
• Rare books or memorabilia

Valuation and division of these assets may involve appraisals and strategic negotiation.

Intellectual Property

For creative professionals, entrepreneurs, or tech industry clients, intellectual property can represent significant long-term value.

• Patents
• Copyrights
• Trademarks
• Licensing agreements
• Royalties from books, music, or software

We help ensure this future income is properly valued and fairly distributed.

Insurance Policies

Life insurance can hold unexpected value in the form of cash surrender value or future death benefits.

• Whole or universal life insurance policies
• Policies with substantial cash value
• Policies used to secure support payments

We review ownership, beneficiaries, and fair division or continuation post-divorce.

Luxury Assets

These assets often symbolize lifestyle and status, but can also be significant in monetary value.

• Yachts or boats
• Luxury vehicles
• Designer collections
• Private club memberships
• Aircraft or fractional jet ownership

We assist in documentation, valuation, and division of high-end property.

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Marriages of More Than 10 Years in California

In California, a marriage lasting 10 years or more is considered a long-duration marriage, which can significantly impact spousal support and other aspects of divorce.

Key Legal Implications:

• No set end date for spousal support: The court might not set a termination date for support in long-duration marriages, giving the supported spouse a stronger claim for extended or indefinite support.
• Increased scrutiny of each spouse’s ability to become self-supporting: Courts expect both parties to become self-sufficient eventually but may allow more time for this transition in long-term marriages.
• Greater consideration for contributions and sacrifices: A spouse who gave up career opportunities to raise children or support the other’s career may receive more favorable support and asset division.

It’s important to remember that “long-term” does not guarantee lifelong support. Courts will evaluate whether support is truly necessary and just. We work with clients to establish or challenge support obligations based on clear evidence, realistic needs, and financial disclosures.

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What Clients Are saying About Us

She cares deeply about her clients and is extremely professional - Cassidy (5-Star Google Review)

If you are going through a divorce, child custody issue, or really anything family law related in San Diego, Amelia Mattis is the attorney for you. She cares deeply about her clients and is extremely professional. You can tell that the judges, other attorneys and professionals on that case respect her, and that really makes your case reach resolution. Amelia always explains your options concisely and with advice so that you can make an informed decision for your family. She is even upfront about costs, so you know what to expect and what options you have in your budget. I have recommended her to my own friends and family, if you think you need a family law attorney in San Diego, do not hesitate to call her!

I really appreciated Amelia's calm demeanor - Susan Dorswitt (5-Star Google Review)

I really appreciated Amelia's calm demeanor during a time that felt incredibly chaotic. Amelia made sure to advocate for me during times I was feeling unsure in the divorce process. I really appreciated having an attorney that made things clear/simplified so I could still focus on living life outside of court without worrying incessantly about the opposing party.

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Other Locations We Serve

• Carlsbad
• Coronado
• Del Mar
• Encinitas
• La Jolla
• Poway
• Rancho Santa Fe
• Solana Beach

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Speak With a Trusted San Diego High-Asset Divorce Attorney Today

Your financial well-being, your family, and your peace of mind are worth protecting. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we bring relentless advocacy to every high-asset divorce case. Whether you’re the primary earner or the supported spouse, we help you understand your rights, clarify your options, and make decisions that serve your long-term future.

Call (858) 328-4400 to schedule a free consultation with a San Diego divorce lawyer.

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High-Asset Divorce FAQs

What qualifies as a high-asset divorce in California?

A high-asset divorce typically involves substantial and diverse financial holdings, such as business interests, investment accounts, real estate, retirement plans, and luxury property. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we work with clients whose marital estates include multiple asset categories that require detailed valuation and strategic division.

How are assets divided in a high-asset divorce in San Diego?

California is a community property state, meaning most assets acquired during the marriage are split 50/50. However, in high-asset cases, determining what community vs. separate property can be complex. We assist with identifying, tracing, and fairly dividing assets, including businesses, stock options, and trusts.

What if my spouse tries to hide assets during divorce?

Unfortunately, hidden assets are common in high-net-worth divorces. Amelia J. Mattis is highly experienced in using discovery tools such as interrogatories, subpoenas, and depositions to uncover hidden accounts, offshore holdings, or concealed income.

Will my business be affected by the divorce?

If your business was started or grew during the marriage, it may be subject to division. Our firm works with business valuation experts to assess the fair market value and determine equitable outcomes, whether through division, offset, or buyout.

What if my spouse and I have a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement?

Prenups and postnups can significantly influence how property is divided. We review the agreement’s enforceability and ensure your rights are protected. Even with an agreement, California courts may scrutinize terms for fairness.

What types of property are commonly addressed in a high-asset divorce?

Common assets include:

• Businesses and professional practices
• Real estate (primary, rental, and vacation properties)
• Stock portfolios and RSUs
• Retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, pensions)
• Art, jewelry, and collectibles
• Trusts and life insurance policies
• Intellectual property and royalties

How long does a high-asset divorce take to resolve?

These cases often take longer than average divorces due to the complexity of financial analysis, valuations, and negotiations. While some cases settle within months, others may take a year or more, especially if litigation is necessary.

Will my divorce remain private?

Privacy is a major concern for high-net-worth individuals. We take extra precautions to limit unnecessary public disclosures and handle sensitive information with discretion. Confidential settlement negotiations can also help keep matters out of the public record.

Why should I choose Mattis Law, A.P.C. for my high-asset divorce?

Attorney Amelia J. Mattis brings a rare combination of litigation strength, financial analysis, and client-focused communication. She is known for her ability to handle complex cases involving businesses, support disputes, custody concerns, and contested assets—with the personalized attention your case deserves.

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Meet Our San Diego Complex Divorce Attorney

Amelia J. Mattis

Amelia J. Mattis is the founder and principal attorney at Mattis Law, A.P.C., where she focuses exclusively on family law matters with an emphasis on high-asset divorce, complex custody disputes, and emotionally sensitive cases involving domestic violence or child abuse allegations. Known for her calm approach, strategic thinking, and courtroom presence, Amelia provides personalized, thorough representation to clients navigating some of the most challenging times in their lives.

Amelia’s legal practice is distinguished by her strong command of discovery and evidence gathering, including depositions and interrogatories. These are critical tools in uncovering financial information in high-net-worth divorces. She works closely with each client to ensure their concerns are clearly communicated to the court, and she regularly engages experts and professionals to support complex litigation or negotiation strategies.

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Additional Information

• Hidden Gems: Finding Hidden Assets During Property Division
• Protecting Your Child’s Inheritance in a Divorce
• Property and Debt in a Divorce or Legal Separation