La Jolla High Asset Divorce Lawyer

Are You in Need of a Divorce Attorney in La Jolla?

The term high asset divorce applies in situations where you or your spouse own considerable assets such as valuable real estate, businesses, investments, or luxury items. These cases require the services of a La Jolla divorce attorney who has experience evaluating and dividing wealth.

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we focus on helping clients protect your future during some of the most challenging moments of your life. Whether you are a business owner, high-earning professional, or the spouse of one, the decisions you make now can affect your financial security for years to come.

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Why Choose Us Over Other High Asset Divorce Lawyers in La Jolla

If you’re going through a high asset divorce in La Jolla, Amelia J. Mattis brings a lot to the table. Clients receive strategic advice, open communication, and personal attention at every stage of the process.

Here’s what sets our firm apart:

• Named one of the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in California by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys – in recognition for her excellence in legal advocacy and client satisfaction.
• Recognized as a San Diego Rising Star by Super Lawyers – based on peer reviews and independent research.
• Named Lawyer of the Year by the American Institute of Legal Professionals – highlighting her professionalism and legal impact.
• Chosen by Expertise.com as one of the Best Divorce Lawyers in San Diego – based on reputation, responsiveness, and client reviews.
• Known for client-centered representation with a deep understanding of complex custody and financial issues – guiding clients with clarity and care.

Safeguarding Your Future

Going through a high asset divorce? Call (858) 328-4400 for a free consultation.

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Reasons to Hire a Lawyer Right Away

• Protect your financial interests from the outset
• Understand your rights and obligations before signing any documents
• Prevent the dissipation or concealment of marital assets
• Develop a strategic plan for support, custody, and property division
• Collect and preserve financial records, including those that may be subpoenaed later

Delaying representation could result in costly mistakes that impact the outcome of your divorce and your long-term financial health.

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What Is a High Asset Divorce?

A high asset divorce typically involves couples whose marital estate includes complex or high-value assets. These may include multiple properties, significant investment portfolios, business interests, retirement accounts, or luxury goods. High asset cases may involve:

• Sophisticated financial analysis
• Business valuations
• Forensic accounting
• Asset tracing
• Disputes over classification of property

Finding a lawyer who is familiar with the nuances of high asset cases is essential for ensuring the equitable division of marital assets.

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What Makes a High Asset Divorce Different?

High asset divorces differ from other divorces in several important ways:

• Valuation of assets: Determining the accurate value of stocks, businesses, intellectual property, and other holdings requires experts.
• Hidden assets: One spouse may try to hide money, transfer property, or delay income until after the divorce is finalized.
• Tax implications: Missteps during division can result in serious tax liabilities.
• Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements: These may be enforced or contested, depending on circumstances.
• Spousal support: The paying spouse may be a high-income earner, creating complex support calculations.

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Marital and Non-Marital Assets

In a California divorce, marital and non-marital assets are treated differently, based on the state’s community property laws.

Marital Assets

Marital assets are generally assets acquired by either spouse during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title. This includes income, real estate, retirement benefits, businesses, and other property earned or purchased during the marriage.

Community property is subject to equal division (50/50) upon divorce. Both spouses are considered equal owners of community assets, and the court will aim to divide them fairly and equally, unless a settlement agreement says otherwise.

Non-Marital Assets

In a California divorce, non-marital assets, also known as separate property remains the sole property of the original owner and is not divided in the divorce.

Non-marital assets include:

• Property owned by one spouse before the marriage
• Gifts or inheritances received by one spouse, even during the marriage
• Assets that were clearly kept separate and not commingled with marital funds

Commingled or Disputed Assets

Problems often arise when separate and community property are commingled. For example, using marital funds to improve a separate property or blending accounts. In such cases, the court may need to trace the origin of the funds and determine whether all or part of the asset has become community property.

Customized Support for a High Asset Divorce

We understand what’s at stake. Call (858) 328-4400 to find out how we can protect what’s yours.

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Types of Assets in High Asset Divorce Cases

High asset divorces involve more than just dividing bank accounts. They require careful evaluation of complex property types that carry financial, legal, and emotional weight. Each category of asset brings its own valuation challenges, tax implications, and potential for dispute.

Business Ownership

Business interests are among the most complicated assets to value and divide. Whether you or your spouse own a small LLC or are a partner in a larger firm, a business must be appraised, and its community and separate property portions determined. Business continuity and cash flow may also be considered.

Professional Practices

Doctors, lawyers, and other licensed professionals often have practices that require special valuation methods, especially when goodwill and client relationships are part of the practice's value.

Investment Accounts and Stock Options

Some of these holdings are subject to vesting schedules or future payouts. An attorney must understand how to divide these assets fairly without triggering tax penalties. Proper valuation often depends on the timing of the grant, the vesting date, and whether the asset was earned before or during the marriage.

These types of assets may require financial expert analysis to determine their present and future value for equitable division:

• Brokerage accounts
• Mutual funds
• Stock options, RSUs (Restricted Stock Units), and restricted shares

Real Estate Properties

From the primary family residence to vacation homes and rental investments, real estate must be properly valued and assessed for its community or separate status. Ownership and contribution histories are vital.

Pensions, 401(k)s, and IRAs

Retirement accounts are marital property if earned during the marriage. Division may require a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) to properly allocate retirement funds. These assets often represent a significant portion of the marital estate, making accurate valuation and proper division critical. Mistakes in handling retirement accounts can result in tax penalties or lost benefits, so careful planning is essential.

Luxury Items and Collectibles

These items often require appraisal and may be hidden or undervalued without experienced counsel. Disputes frequently arise over ownership, authenticity, and fair market value, especially when items were acquired over time or gifted during the marriage. Proper documentation and expert valuation help ensure these assets are accounted for and divided appropriately.

High-end items may include:

• Jewelry
• Art collections
• Vehicles
• Boats
• Sports memorabilia
• Wine collections

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What If Your Spouse is Hiding Assets?

Unfortunately, in some high asset divorces, one spouse may attempt to conceal wealth through shell companies, offshore accounts, or transferring assets to friends or family. These tactics are illegal but can be difficult to uncover without the right legal tools.

We have experience pursuing subpoenas, discovery motions, and financial investigations to uncover hidden or misrepresented assets. Transparency is key in any property division, and we are prepared to take the necessary steps to ensure a full accounting of the marital estate.

Forensic Accounting

Forensic accounting is the practice of examining financial records to trace and identify assets, verify income, and uncover any discrepancies or potential fraud. In high asset divorces, a forensic accountant can:

• Analyze tax returns and bank statements
• Review business records and expenses
• Detect unusual transactions or off-the-books income
• Help calculate accurate support figures
• Determine if assets are being concealed

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we work with trusted financial professionals to support your case with solid evidence.

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What Is a Long-Term Marriage in California?

In high asset divorces involving long-term marriages, planning for future income, retirement security, and tax exposure presents additional challenges. Under California law, a long-term marriage is generally considered to be one lasting 10 years or more. This classification can affect:

• The duration of spousal support (it may be indefinite or subject to later modification)
• The court's discretion in deciding whether to reserve jurisdiction over support matters
• The valuation and division of retirement accounts and pensions earned over the course of a long marriage

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What Clients Are Saying About Us

I highly recommend her-Sally Kim (5-Star Google Review)

I cannot thank Amelia enough for her exceptional service during a challenging time in my life. From our very first time meeting, she has made me feel heard, supported, and understood. Not only is her knowledge of family law incredible, she is also extremely detail-orientated, which has given me peace of mind throughout the entire process. She also always had a compassionate approach and even took the time to explain the approach with me every step of the way, ensuring that we were always on the same page. Thanks to Amelia, I was able to reach a fair resolution that protect my interests and those of my family. I highly recommend her. You will be in excellent hands!

I have recommended her to my own friends and family-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!

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Other Locations We Serve

• Carlsbad
• Coronado
• Del Mar
• Encinitas
• Poway
• Rancho Santa Fe
• San Diego
• Solana Beach

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Speak With an Experienced La Jolla High Asset Divorce Attorney Today

A high asset divorce is about securing your future, protecting what you've worked hard for, and making sure your rights are respected. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we provide strategic guidance and thorough case preparation to safeguard your future.

When you work with Amelia J. Mattis, you get clear communication at every stage of the process from a highly respected divorce lawyer.

Call (858) 328-4400 to schedule your free consultation.

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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 complex assets such as multiple real estate holdings, business interests, investment accounts, stock options, or luxury property. These cases often require forensic accounting and specialized financial analysis to ensure a fair division of property and support.

How is property divided in a high asset divorce in California?

California is a community property state. That means most assets acquired during the marriage are split equally. But in these cases, assets may require expert evaluation.

Do I need a forensic accountant for my divorce?

In high asset divorces, forensic accountants are often brought in to track income, uncover hidden assets, and analyze complex financial holdings. If your case involves business ownership, commingled funds, or offshore accounts, forensic accounting can be a critical part of your legal strategy.

Can stock options or RSUs be divided in a divorce?

Yes. Stock options, RSUs (Restricted Stock Units), and other deferred compensation are subject to division if earned during the marriage. Determining the community property portion often requires reviewing vesting schedules, grant dates, and employment terms.

Is a business considered community property?

A business that was started or grew during the marriage will probably be viewed as community property, at least partially. This means its value may need to be shared between both spouses. Business valuations, including goodwill and future earning capacity, are often necessary.

How can I protect my separate property in a high asset divorce?

Maintaining detailed financial records and keeping separate property truly separate from marital assets are key. If property was inherited or owned before the marriage, it may be protected if it wasn’t commingled with marital funds or used for joint purposes.

What happens if my spouse is hiding assets?

If you suspect your spouse is concealing income or property, your attorney can take steps to uncover hidden assets through discovery, subpoenas, and financial experts. Courts take concealment seriously and may penalize a spouse who fails to disclose assets fully.

Can spousal support be affected in a high asset divorce?

Yes. Spousal support in high asset cases can be substantial and is influenced by factors such as each party’s earning capacity, standard of living during the marriage, and the duration of the marriage. Amelia J. Mattis uses tools like DissoMaster™ to project fair support amounts.

What’s considered a long-term marriage in California?

A marriage lasting 10 years or more is generally considered long-term under California law. This classification can affect how long spousal support may be awarded and whether the court retains jurisdiction to modify support later.

How soon should I contact a high asset divorce attorney?

As soon as possible. Early legal counsel helps preserve evidence, protect your financial interests, and prevent asset concealment. If you’re considering divorce and have significant assets, call Mattis Law, A.P.C. at (858) 328-4400 to schedule a free consultation.

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Meet Our Attorney

Amelia J. Mattis

Amelia J. Mattis is the founder and principal attorney of Mattis Law, A.P.C., a San Diego based family law firm focused on complex custody and high asset divorce matters. Known for her compassionate yet strategic approach, Amelia helps clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues with clarity, confidence, and personalized attention.

Amelia has represented clients in a wide range of high-stakes family law disputes, including multi-day custody trials, domestic violence restraining order hearings, and contested asset division matters. She is especially skilled in handling custody modifications, parental relocation (move-away) cases, and disputes involving special needs children. Amelia remains committed to helping clients feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout the legal process.

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