Advocating For Your Share Of Retirement Accounts in Divorce

If you face divorce and the prospect of splitting multiple income streams and significant assets, you need experienced and detailed legal advocacy to preserve your lifestyle. Quist Law Firm, PLLC can guide you through the entire divorce. Our firm will take the lead in negotiating a favorable settlement, including your equitable share of retirement accounts.

In Michigan, retirement accounts can include investments such as:

• Pensions

• Deferred Compeensation Plan

• 401(k) and 403(b) plans

• Social Security benefits

• IRAs and other investments

If a retirement account was started before the marriage, only the amount of assets accumulated during the marriage will be divided in the divorce process.

Taking Control Of Disbursement

After a retirement asset division agreement occurs (in most cases a Marital Settlement Agreement is signed or Judgment of Divorce is entered), disbursement of funds may happen at the time of divorce, or years later when retirement takes place. Government retirement plans may differ from private plans in how they disburse payments. Many retirement plans require a court-approved qualified domestic relations order. Our attorneys will go the extra mile to ensure that all details are in place and that you know what to expect regarding your retirement assets.

Steering You Clear Of Difficulties

As a firm experienced in high-conflict divorce litigation, we know that the divorce process can be difficult, but we aim to minimize surprises. We will take the time to answer all of your questions and provide skilled legal counsel.

What factors will affect my property division arrangement?

Every case is unique. The court does not follow any formula. It will consider several factors, including:

• The length of the marriage

• The assets and debts that each spouse acquired during the marriage

• Each spouse’s income

• Each spouse’s financial needs

• Each spouse’s earning potential

Can I settle my case out of court? What happens if I can’t?

Often, Quist Homier Law can help you use alternative dispute resolution methods (collaborative divorce and mediation) to find solutions to divorce issues out of court. This can benefit both parties, as it keeps costs down and gives you more control over the outcome.

However, we also understand that some cases do not benefit from private settlement. In some cases, it is simply unavoidable to go to trial. At trial, a judge will issue a final decree regarding asset division.

Is an attorney really necessary for marital property division?

Even if your marital estate is fairly simple, you will want an attorney to help you document, valuate and distribute it. If you go through this on your own, you risk making a legal mistake that could complicate the process. Your attorney can not only ensure that you do everything correctly, but also advocate for the best arrangement available to you.

Contact Quist Homier Law Today

We understand that you cannot take a chance with investments for your future. Give our firm in Grand Rapids a call at 616-454-9008, or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation to learn more about how we can help.