Resolution Through Negotiation

Family law and child custody representation in Minnesota's Twin Cities.

Your inheritance may be at risk if you get a divorce

On Behalf of | Nov 21, 2014 | Firm News |

We all know that divorces can get messy. From child custody to retirement accounts, there are all sorts of things that can get contentious in negotiating a divorce settlement. One of the biggest sticking points in a divorce, though, can be the disposition of inherited assets. From a parent’s vacation home to a grandmother’s antique diamond ring, generally all assets in a divorce must be split equitably. As a result, that family property could become your ex’s.

The best way to avoid such a scenario is to negotiate a prenup. If there are important family assets that you currently own, or expect to own at some point in the future, it is wise to set forth an agreement with your spouse with regard to that particular asset. The problem, though, is many of us do not think that far ahead. Owning Grandpa’s hunting cabin decades from now is not usually a huge concern in the months before a marriage. In the absence of a prenuptial agreement, then, divorcing spouses are left to defend their rights to inherited property with little ammunition.

Local St. Paul and Twin Cities area family law lawyers know what arguments are available to divorcees when it comes to inherited property, especially in a high asset divorce. These experienced professionals have helped hundreds of individuals keep inherited property in a dispute without ceding other critical assets.

Not only can these lawyers help advocate for an individual’s property after a divorce proceeding has begun, they may also help advise divorcees before litigation begins. They can help explain the nuts and bolts of a premarital agreement. In the event you are already married, these legal professionals can also explain the merits of a post-marital agreement or trust arrangement. If a divorce if already on the horizon, they can also explain preserving documents and other information to help bolster one’s right to inherited property. No matter what questions you may have about divorce proceedings or the division of assets, local family law lawyers can lend a hand.