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Wisconsin Business Valuation Attorneys
Divorce Lawyers Serving Clients in Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Waukesha
Business ownership can be one of the most valuable assets in a marriage. In Wisconsin, any business interests purchased during a marriage are considered marital property, even if one of the spouses is not involved in the business. During a divorce, the value of the business must be divided equally between the spouses, through either ownership of the business or other assets of the same value. Assessing the value of the business is vital in order to equitably divide the marital assets.
At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, you'll find experienced attorneys who have worked with clients in both business and divorce cases. Our attorneys can help you properly determine the value of your marriage's business assets and protect your rights as a business owner.
Your Business' Value
The current and future value of a business is measured through varying factors, which change depending on the size and nature of the business. A skilled appraiser will investigate several aspects of a business when determining its value, including:
- Earning potential;
- Long-term industry and economic outlooks;
- Asset value and availability;
- History and reputation;
- Outstanding liabilities;
- Stockholder profits; and
- Tax obligations
GRGB works with financial experts to use the most accurate valuation methods to determine the true worth of your business assets.
Consequences of Incorrect Valuations
Miscalculating the value of marital business assets may cause a financial gain for one party and a loss for the other. If a business is overvalued, the spouse who owns the business will be giving up more marital assets than the business is worth. If a business is undervalued, the spouse who does not own the business will not receive proper compensation.
Whether you are a business owner or the spouse of one, GRGB will advocate for your fair share of the marital assets through an accurate business valuation.
Confidential Records
During a business valuation, sensitive information about the business can become public as part of the divorce records. Business competitors may search the divorce records for company secrets, such as:
- Cash reserves;
- Employee salaries;
- Acquisition targets; and
- Intellectual property values.
GRGB understands the sensitive nature of business information and how its release could put your business at a disadvantage. We will use legal means to try to protect your business' secrets.
If you or your spouse owned any business interests during your marriage, our attorneys can tell you what qualifies as marital property and determine the actual value of those assets. We will use Wisconsin law to fight for a fair division of those assets. To learn more about your business rights, schedule an appointment at GRGB's Milwaukee office by calling 414-271-1440.
