
From homes and cars to retirement accounts
and investments, the process can feel overwhelming — and the stakes are high. At Garnes Law,
we help you protect your financial future by ensuring a fair and equitable division of property.
In New Jersey and Pennsylvania, most property acquired during marriage is considered marital property. This may include:
The family home
Bank accounts and savings
Retirement plans and pensions
Vehicles, jewelry, and valuable personal items
Separate property (assets owned before marriage or received as gifts/inheritance) may be excluded — but disputes often arise.

We work with financial experts when needed to:

Identify and classify marital vs. separate property

Accurately value assets and debts

Uncover hidden accounts or investments

Negotiate for a fair settlement or fight for you in court

David Garnes has experience with divorces involving:
High net worth individuals
Business owners and entrepreneurs
Military pensions and benefits
Long-term marriages with substantial assets
Marital property includes assets acquired during the marriage. Separate property includes assets owned before marriage or received by gift/inheritance, although separate property can convert to marital in some cases (e.g., commingling).
Property is divided either by state rules (community property vs. equitable distribution) or by mutual agreement. In equitable distribution states, courts divide assets fairly but not always equally.
Yes, marital debts, like mortgages and loans incurred during the marriage, are typically divided between the spouses along with assets.
The family home can be sold with proceeds divided, one spouse can buy out the other’s share, or spouses can agree on other solutions depending on financial circumstances.
Yes, retirement plans, pensions, 401(k)s, and IRAs may be divisible in a divorce and may require special orders to transfer benefits.
Yes, valid prenuptial or postnuptial agreements can define how property is divided and may prevent disputes over certain assets.
3 Executive Campus
2370 Marlton Pike West Suite 255
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Phone: 856-438-5234
Fax: 856-282-1159
One Liberty Place
1650 Market Street 36th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 267-838-9713
Fax: 856-282-1159
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