Last updated on April 16, 2021
To help ensure accuracy, this page was written, edited and is periodically reviewed by a knowledgeable team of legal writers per our editorial guidelines. It was approved for publication by founding attorney Samuel Siemon, who has amassed extensive experience as a Georgia family law attorney. Our last modified date shows when the page underwent a review.
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 Divorce and Family Law Attorneys, P.C., 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.
