Case Overview
A Korean-American woman in her 50s, residing in New Jersey, came to Song Law Firm after deciding to end her 20-year marriage. The central challenge: virtually all marital assets — including a business, real estate, and investment accounts — were held exclusively in her ex-husband’s name. Despite her decades of contribution as a homemaker and primary caregiver, she had no assets in her own name.
The Challenge
The opposing party claimed the business predated the marriage and that the real estate was acquired through his sole efforts. He sought to minimize our client’s share in the division of assets. Having no independent income and having relied entirely on her spouse financially, our client faced the prospect of starting over with nothing. Understanding her legal rights under New Jersey law was the critical first step.
Our Approach
Song Law Firm partnered with a forensic accountant to determine the true value of the business and specifically identify how much of that value had grown during the marriage — which is subject to equitable distribution under New Jersey law. We built a detailed narrative of our client’s contributions: managing the household, raising children, supporting her husband’s professional development, and enabling his business growth. We also pursued alimony to ensure she could re-establish her financial footing after decades outside the workforce.
The Outcome
The court recognized our client’s entitlement to a substantial portion of the business’s marital growth, a fair share of the couple’s real estate assets, and limited duration alimony. After two decades of dedication to her family, she was finally granted the financial foundation to start a new chapter.
Client Testimonial
“I gave 20 years to that family and thought I’d walk away with nothing. Song Law Firm fought for every dollar I deserved. Because of them, I can stand on my own two feet.” — Client B (50s, New Jersey)
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today If you’re facing a divorce involving significant shared assets, don’t assume that what’s in your spouse’s name isn’t yours. New Jersey’s equitable distribution law protects your contributions. Call Song Law Firm today. 🌐 songlawfirm.com
Disclaimer: Results may vary. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
FAQ
Q1. How is property divided in a New Jersey divorce? New Jersey follows the principle of equitable distribution — not a 50/50 split, but a fair division based on factors like length of marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and their financial circumstances.
Q2. Can my spouse’s business be divided in a divorce even if I’m not on the paperwork? Yes, if the business grew during the marriage, that growth may be considered marital property subject to division — regardless of whose name is on the business.
Q3. Am I entitled to alimony if I was a stay-at-home spouse in New Jersey? Alimony eligibility depends on several factors including length of marriage, standard of living, and each party’s earning capacity. Stay-at-home spouses often qualify for some form of alimony.
