Dividing Retirement Plans In Divorce Requires Care

Many people who go through the divorce process are surprised to find out that they have to share their pension plan, 401(k), IRA and other retirement accounts with their spouse. Retirement savings are often the most significant assets a person owns.

At The Siemon Law Firm, our divorce and retirement lawyers are here to protect your interests if you are going through or planning a divorce. We represent men and women throughout Atlanta and Northern Georgia.

Isn’t My Retirement Account Mine?

Even though your retirement account is in your name alone, it is considered marital property. In Georgia, all assets accumulated after your marriage are marital property and are subject to equitable distribution.

For many people, retirement assets will consist of two parts:

  • The portion accumulated before your marriage is separate property and doesn’t have to be shared with your spouse.
  • The portion accumulated after your marriage is marital property and must be divided according to the law of equitable distribution.

What Does “Equitable” Mean?

In most cases, “equitable” will mean 50-50, but a judge could determine that an unequal distribution is equitable if there is income disparity between you and your spouse or fault grounds in the divorce.

When negotiating an equitable division of marital assets, you and your spouse can agree to exchange assets. For example, you can give your spouse your share of the marital residence in exchange for your spouse’s share of your 401(k) account.

Contact Our Atlanta Divorce Attorneys Today

Whether you are planning for a divorce or you need to respond to a divorce filing by your spouse, our lawyers are here to advise you. Please contact us today and arrange a personal, discreet consultation. Call 770-888-5120. We have four convenient office locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Cumming and Marietta.

Reach Out To Our Experienced Team For Help With Your Legal Issues

How The Siemon Law Firm Can Help

Contact our Georgia Family Law Firm by calling 770-888-5120 or by completing this contact form.

An attorney will respond within 24 business hours.

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    Our Office Locations

    Cumming, Georgia

    347 Dahlonega St #100,
    Cumming, GA 30040 770-888-5120 Cumming Law Office Map

    Marietta, Georgia

    1850 Parkway Pl Suite 715,
    Marietta, GA 30067 770-888-5312 Marietta Law Office Map

    Alpharetta, Georgia

    4555 Mansell Rd,
    Alpharetta, GA 30022
    770-888-5093 Alpharetta Law Office Map

    Atlanta, Georgia

    3400 Peachtree Rd NE Suite 555,
    Atlanta, GA 30326 770-888-5078 Atlanta Law Office Map