Josh and his team proved their track record. I hired him at 9am and they appeared for me by 1pm the same day. Highly contested paternity case, turned dependency nightmare. He faught hard in a short time and got the results I needed. My baby back. Josh and his associates are kind, patient, diligent and aggressive. They are human. I trusted them through the whole process. I was kept informed and they faught with passion. I’d rehire josh and his team any day. It was well worth the money spent. – Rochelle
Executive Compensation in Florida Divorce: Stock Options, Bonuses, and Deferred Pay
Executive compensation can create difficult questions in a Florida divorce. Salary may be only one part of the financial picture. Bonuses, stock options, restricted stock units, deferred compensation, and incentive plans may all need to be reviewed.
These benefits are often governed by employment agreements and vesting schedules. Some compensation may have been earned during the marriage but paid later. Other benefits may depend on future performance or continued employment. That timing can make classification and valuation more complicated.
Important executive compensation issues may include:
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Whether awards were granted for past, present, or future work
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How vesting dates affect marital and nonmarital claims
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Whether bonuses are discretionary or contract-based
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How tax withholding may affect actual value
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Whether future payouts should be addressed in settlement language
Two assets with the same headline value may not produce the same financial result. For example, a deferred award may carry restrictions, tax consequences, or uncertainty. A cash account is different from a stock award that cannot yet be sold.
In some cases, executive compensation also affects support calculations. Courts may consider available income, but irregular bonuses and incentive pay may require careful presentation. A one-time payout may not reflect a reliable future income stream.
Settlement agreements should be drafted with precision. Vague language can create disputes when awards vest, shares are sold, or bonuses are paid after the divorce is final.
If your divorce involves executive compensation, Brodie & Friedman can help you understand how these benefits may be evaluated and addressed under Florida law.
Contact
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1675 N. Military Trail, Suite 730 Boca Raton, Florida 33486- Zoom consultations are available.