Paul M. Daniels Divorce Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Equitable distribution is the means by which property and assets are distributed following a divorce in Pennsylvania. The property settlement you receive during a divorce plays a vital role in your well-being and your children’s future. During one of the most emotionally charged times you may ever face, you need a lawyer with the savvy and skills to protect your interests and the sensitivity to guide you through this tough time.

Equitable does not mean equal

According to Lawyers.com , Pennsylvania courts consider many factors when determining how to divide marital assets in a divorce — such as the length of the marriage, assets and needs, employability and each party’s contribution during the marriage. Judges use this type of information to help both parties begin their new lives with enough marital property to have approximately equal opportunities.

But an equitable distribution does not mean the courts attempt a 50/50 split of property, as illustrated in these examples:

• A wife who financially contributed to the education of her husband to increase his employment opportunities during the marriage might receive additional compensation as part of the property settlement.
• A husband may receive a higher percentage of the assets if he has a medical condition that limits his earning abilities.
• A family business typically goes to one spouse. When determining the monetary distribution that goes to the other spouse, the judge considers the future profits of the business in addition to the cash value of the business and its assets at the time of divorce.

Keep in mind that part of property distribution includes the equitable division of outstanding marital debt.

The importance of skilled legal support in a negotiated property settlement

Divorcing couples have greater flexibility when they negotiate a settlement rather than leaving decisions to the court.  The compassionate and objective support of an experienced asset division lawyer in Pittsburgh  helps ensure they receive a fair property settlement. A skilled attorney can help in many ways, including:

• Working with clients to ensure full financial disclosure from both parties
• Advocating on behalf of clients to protect their interests
• Helping find creative and fair solutions when the most contentious issues make compromise seem impossible

Contact an experienced Pittsburgh divorce lawyer for the negotiation and litigation experience needed to protect your interests

The law firm of Paul M. Daniels & Associates  has more than 35 years of experience successfully guiding clients through the complex issues of divorce, allowing them to start a new life. We give our clients the personal attention they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Paul M. Daniels & Associates
2403 Sidney Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
412.381.8809