Many Alabama residents believe they know their partners better than anyone else when they choose to get married. That can change when the couple gets divorced, however, as a tension-filled dispute can bring out a new side of people never seen before.

While a soon-to-be-ex-spouse’s behavior can certainly cause a range of emotions and feelings, it can also lead to fears that the divorce process will not be handled fairly. This can be particularly true when it comes to a high asset divorce, where spouses have concerns that they will not obtain a fair share of the marital property.

Part of the problem is in knowing what assets the couple owns in the first place. While this may seem odd at first blush, it can be particularly difficult to know all of the assets that exist when spouses have different property interests or types of assets. For instance, when couples have complex finances, including multiple homes, employer stock options or business assets, it can be a chore simply to identify all of the assets. Moreover, once the assets are identified, it may be unclear what each asset is worth.

Fortunately, when couples must deal with complex asset division, there is help available. Experienced attorneys can work with experts and other individuals to identify assets and complete asset valuation.

This team will work to ensure no assets are undisclosed, withheld or undervalued by the other spouse, who has an interest in keeping the assets himself or herself after the divorce. For instance, if a spouse handles the business assets owned by the couple, that spouse may be manipulative in disclosing the true value of the assets. By working with an experienced attorney who understands the process of complex asset division, however, spouses can ensure they are protected and that they receive a fair share of all marital assets.

Source: CBS News, “Divorce financial planner: 3 common fears,” Robert Pagliarini, Aug. 23, 2013