Property Division – Protecting What You’ve Earned

One of the most difficult parts of any divorce or legal separation is the division of property. Whether the split is contested or amicable, dividing shared assets can raise serious emotional, financial, and legal challenges. At Paucek & Lage Law Firm, we help clients navigate this process with clarity, fairness, and legal precision—so that you walk away with the security you need to move forward. In New York, marital property is divided based on the principle of equitable distribution—which doesn’t always mean equal, but rather what the court deems fair. That distinction can create uncertainty for divorcing spouses. Our job is to ensure that your rights are protected and your contributions—both financial and non-financial—are accurately recognized in the final agreement or court order. We begin every case by identifying and categorizing assets. This includes distinguishing marital property (assets acquired during the marriage) from separate property (owned prior to marriage or received via gift/inheritance). Real estate, investment accounts, retirement funds, vehicles, businesses, intellectual property, debts, and personal belongings all come under scrutiny. Our attorneys work alongside financial professionals, CPAs, and appraisers to ensure a full and accurate valuation of the marital estate. Our clients often come to us with concerns about losing their home, retirement savings, or control over shared investments. Others worry about business ownership, debt responsibility, or the division of high-value assets like artwork or stock options. No matter the complexity of your financial landscape, we approach property division with the goal of preserving what matters most to you and creating a sustainable financial path forward. While we encourage negotiation and mediation whenever possible, we are also equipped to represent you in court. Our trial lawyers are experienced in handling contested divorces and high-conflict property division cases. We present clear, evidence-backed arguments that support your position and help ensure a favorable ruling. We understand the tactics opposing parties use to undervalue, hide, or manipulate assets—and we know how to respond effectively. Throughout the process, communication is key. We keep you informed, explain your options, and help you understand the short- and long-term implications of every decision. Whether your goal is to retain the family home, fairly divide a shared business, or protect your future retirement income, we build a plan that aligns with your priorities and fights for what you deserve. At Paucek & Lage, we know that property division is more than a legal calculation—it’s a deeply personal process with lasting financial impact. Our team is here to provide clarity, security, and strength during one of life’s most difficult transitions. If you’re facing a divorce or separation, don’t go through it alone. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us help you protect what’s yours.