Navigating a high net worth divorce presents a unique set of challenges, including the division of substantial retirement accounts. These assets, such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and pension plans, often represent a significant portion of marital wealth and demand careful consideration due to their complex tax implications and potential future value.

This article explains the complexities of valuing and dividing retirement accounts in high net worth divorces. This guide, in addition to the help of a trusted divorce lawyer, will provide clarity and insight into the process.

Summary

1. Valuing Retirement Accounts
2. Factors Affecting Valuation
3. Dividing Retirement Accounts
4. Types of Division
5. Protecting Your Retirement Accounts
6. Seeking Professional Guidance

1. Valuing Retirement Accounts

Valuing retirement accounts accurately is a critical aspect of high net worth divorces, primarily because these assets often represent a large portion of the couple’s wealth. An accurate valuation is not just about knowing the current balance in the account. It’s also about understanding the potential future value of these assets, considering factors like investment growth, interest rates, and the account holder’s retirement age.

2. Factors Affecting Valuation

Several factors play a crucial role in the valuation of retirement accounts. Beyond the current balance, future considerations like investment risk, inflation, and health-related expenses can greatly impact the value of these assets. Taxes also significantly affect the worth of these accounts as they are due when assets are withdrawn from some retirement plans.

Additionally, the real value of retirement accounts stems from not having to pay taxes on investment income and the opportunity for rebalancing. Furthermore, the size, value, and profitability of the investments within the account can also influence the overall value.

3. Dividing Retirement Accounts

The division of retirement accounts in high net worth divorces is a complex task, requiring careful navigation of legal implications. Retirement assets accrued during the marriage, such as IRAs and 401(k)s, are generally considered marital assets that can be divided.

This division can be achieved through a “transfer incident to divorce” or a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). In some cases, ex-spouses might even be eligible for monthly benefits if the marriage lasted for at least ten years.

Additionally, high net worth individuals often have significant funds tied up in various financial investments, adding another layer of complexity to the division process. Therefore, seek expert advice from a divorce lawyer to ensure an equitable division.

4. Types of Division

Retirement accounts can be divided in various ways, including:

• Equal Split: This involves dividing the account balance equally between both parties. Most states adopt the “equitable division” rule, implying that the judge will divide a couple’s property based on what’s fair in their specific situation.
• Pro-Rata: This method considers the contributions made by each party during the marriage. In high net worth divorces, pro-rata division of retirement accounts can be a viable strategy to ensure an equitable split. This method involves dividing the retirement assets according to the proportion each party contributed or based on the length of the marriage during which the funds were accrued. For instance, if a 401(k) account was funded both before and during the marriage, a pro-rata split might allocate only a portion of that account to the marital estate.
• Set-off: In this approach, one spouse may keep the retirement account in exchange for other assets of equal value. However, it’s important to consider the tax implications and potential future value of each asset when negotiating a set-off.

Your divorce lawyer will know state laws and be able to inform you what options you have based on where you live. For instance, Wisconsin law states that 401(k)s acquired during the marriage must be divided through an equal split. You can learn more about Wisconsin law in the post “What Happens To Your 401(k) When You Divorce in Wisconsin.”

5. Protecting Your Retirement Accounts

During a high net worth divorce, both parties may have a vested interest in protecting their retirement accounts. There are several ways to safeguard these assets, such as:

• Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreements: Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements provide a layer of protection for various types of retirement funds, including 401(k)s, IRAs, and employer-sponsored pensions. They can stipulate that each spouse retains 100% of their respective retirement assets, thereby protecting these assets from division during divorce.
• Trusts: Trusts can serve as valuable tools in protecting retirement accounts. A Retirement Plan Trust, for example, acts as a shield, insulating the principal of qualified retirement accounts such as an IRA or 401(k). By naming your trust as the beneficiary of your retirement accounts, you can control what happens to the funds after your passing.
• Negotiating: Effective negotiation can help ensure that the division of these assets is fair and equitable. One strategy might involve trading off other assets to retain more of your retirement accounts. For instance, you might agree to a lower share of the marital home in exchange for a higher percentage of your retirement savings.

6. Seeking Professional Guidance

Dividing retirement accounts in a high net worth divorce requires careful consideration and planning. By understanding the different types of accounts, valuing them accurately, and working with a qualified attorney, you can ensure that your retirement assets are protected and divided fairly.

At Ohiku Law, we have experience handling high net worth divorces and can provide you with the guidance you need during this challenging time. Our team of professional Milwaukee divorce attorneys has the expertise to help you navigate the legal complexities surrounding retirement accounts, ensuring that your interests are protected. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you achieve a fair division of your retirement assets.

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.

In the realm of high-stakes divorces, where significant assets and reputations are on the line, maintaining privacy becomes a major concern. The dissolution of a marriage is an intensely personal affair, and when substantial wealth is involved, it can attract unwanted public attention and even media scrutiny.

This article will provide tips for protecting your privacy during a high net worth divorce, ensuring that you navigate this challenging process with dignity and discretion. These tips, along with the help of a trusted divorce attorney, can help you manage a stressful time with privacy and ease.

Summary:

1. Understand the Legal Implications of Divorce
2. Know What Information is Public
3. Utilize a Trust to Keep Assets Separate
4. Know Your Rights
5. Hire a Financial Advisor
6. Find an Experienced Divorce Attorney

1. Understand the Legal Implications of Divorce

Understanding the legal implications of a high net worth divorce is key to managing the process while preserving your privacy. High-profile divorces often involve complex property division like shared business interests, real estate, investments, and other substantial assets. These complexities can draw out the proceedings, increasing the chance for details to leak into public view.

Knowledge of laws surrounding confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements can be critical in keeping these details private. It’s advisable to consult with a seasoned divorce attorney who specializes in high net worth divorce cases to guide you through the legal maze while protecting your privacy rights.

2. Know What Information is Public

In most jurisdictions, including the state of Wisconsin, divorce proceedings are part of public record, meaning that anyone can access the details of your case, including asset division and custody arrangements.

However, some documents or pieces of information can be sealed by the court, making them inaccessible to the public. This typically includes sensitive information such as financial records, proprietary business information, or anything that might harm a party’s reputation if made public.

It’s important to work with your divorce attorney to identify which parts of your case can be kept private and to request that the court seal these records. Keep in mind that anything you post on social media or discuss publicly outside of court could also become part of the public record. Therefore, it’s advised to be mindful of your digital footprint during this time.

3. Utilize a Trust to Keep Assets Separate

Utilizing a trust or keeping assets separate can be an effective strategy for maintaining privacy in a high net worth divorce. Trusts, especially those established before marriage, are generally considered separate property and not subject to division during divorce proceedings. This can help protect assets like a small business or inheritance.

However, it’s important to note that not all trusts provide this protection. For instance, revocable trusts may not exclude your assets in a divorce since they can be altered or canceled by the trustor.

In addition to trusts, keeping gifts or inheritances separate from marital assets can also offer protection. To maximize privacy and asset protection, consider using a combination of trusts and prenuptial or postnuptial agreements.

4. Know Your Rights

Every individual going through a divorce has certain legal rights that protect their privacy and personal information. These rights can vary depending on the jurisdiction, but generally, you have the right to keep sensitive personal and financial information confidential.

You also have the right to request that certain documents or information be sealed or redacted from the public record. Additionally, you have a right to private consultations with your attorney, where any information shared is protected by attorney-client privilege.

It’s important to be fully aware of these rights and to assert them when necessary. A knowledgeable attorney can provide guidance on how best to protect your privacy rights during the divorce process.

5. Hire a Financial Advisor

Hiring a financial advisor during divorce can be a crucial step in maintaining privacy and managing assets. A skilled financial advisor can provide guidance on asset division, tax implications, and future financial planning.

It is important to choose an advisor who understands the complexities of high net worth divorces and has experience in dealing with such cases. They can also help ensure that all financial disclosures are accurate and complete, which can prevent disputes and maintain privacy.

6. Find an Experienced Divorce Attorney

Finding an experienced divorce attorney is a crucial step in maintaining privacy during a high net worth divorce. An attorney well-versed in handling complex and high-value asset divisions can provide valuable advice on protecting your privacy and financial interests. They can guide you through legal processes, negotiate on your behalf, and help minimize the amount of personal information that becomes part of the public record.

If you’re looking for a Milwaukee divorce attorney, the team at Ohiku Law is here to help you. Ohiku Law has years of experience helping clients in the Milwaukee metro area, including Brookfield, Mequon and the North Shore navigate their high net worth divorces. Call Ohiku Law today so we can help protect what matters to you.

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.

Navigating the process of a high net worth divorce is complex and can be extremely challenging. If you are already navigating this process, then you may already be familiar with what is unique about high net worth divorces. It requires specialized knowledge of legal, financial, and tax issues, often involving multiple entities and investments.

Whether you’re dealing with businesses, real estate holdings, or any other type of asset division issue during a high-value divorce in Milwaukee, it’s important to enlist the help of an experienced divorce attorney in Milwaukee. A knowledgeable attorney can provide guidance throughout the process, ensure a fair outcome, and assist you in protecting your rights and interests.

In this article, we’ll dive into the considerations for dividing complex assets in high net worth divorces and how enlisting the right lawyer on your side can make all the difference.

How Can a Divorce Lawyer Help?

A reputable divorce lawyer can help with various aspects of asset division during a high net worth divorce, including:

• Negotiating the division of assets with your former spouse or their attorney.
• Helping you identify and understand all potential assets.
• Analyzing and evaluating assets to ensure a fair settlement.
• Investigating any hidden or undisclosed assets.
• Crafting an appropriate asset distribution agreement that meets your needs.
• Representing your interests in court, if necessary.
• Assisting with the sale of jointly owned property and other assets.

What Assets are Subject to Division?

In Wisconsin, which is a community property state, most assets acquired during the marriage are considered marital property and are subject to division upon divorce. This includes:

• Real estate
• Businesses
• Retirement accounts
• Investments
• Personal property such as vehicles and furnishings
• Debts incurred during the marriage

However, there are exceptions to the list above based on each circumstance. For example, gifts or inheritances received by one spouse during the marriage can remain separate property, as long as they were kept separate from marital funds.

Similarly, property that one spouse brought into the marriage might remain separate property, but any increase in its value during the marriage could be considered marital property.

It’s important to note that while the presumption in Wisconsin is an equal division of assets, courts can make adjustments based on various factors, such as the duration of the marriage and each spouse’s contributions to the marriage. All of these factors are why transparency is so important during a high net worth divorce.

And always, it’s recommended to consult with a divorce attorney to understand how these rules apply to your specific situation.

How Are Assets Divided?

In high net worth divorces, dividing complex assets such as businesses, real estate, and other substantial investments involves a meticulous process. Initially, all assets owned by either spouse must be identified and classified as either separate property (owned by one spouse before the marriage or received as a gift or inheritance during the marriage), or marital property (acquired during the marriage).

The next step is to accurately evaluate these assets, which may require the assistance of financial experts or appraisers. Once the value is determined, the assets are divided equitably between the spouses.

What Happens to Business Entities?

In Wisconsin, business entities can become a complex part of property division in a divorce. If the business was established or grew in value during the marriage, it is typically considered marital property and subject to division.

Determining the value of a business for this purpose can be challenging and often requires the help of a forensic accountant or business valuation expert. Even if one spouse had no active role in the business, they may still be entitled to a share of its value.

However, dividing a business does not necessarily mean selling it. It’s possible that the spouse who is actively involved in the business could retain it, compensating the other spouse with other assets or through a payment plan.

Alternatively, the spouses could continue to co-own the business post-divorce, though this requires a high degree of cooperation.

Understanding Financial Disclosures

During a high net worth divorce, understanding financial disclosures is paramount. These disclosures provide a comprehensive overview of each spouse’s financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.

In high net worth divorces, these disclosures can be complex due to the variety and complexity of assets involved, such as businesses, real estate, investments, and offshore accounts. It’s not uncommon for one spouse to try to hide assets to avoid sharing them. Therefore, it may be necessary to employ forensic accountants or financial investigators to ensure full disclosure and proper valuation of assets.

Child Support and Alimony

Child support is generally determined by a statutory formula that takes into account the income of both parents, the number of children, and the custody arrangement. However, in high net worth situations, courts may deviate from the standard calculation to accommodate the child’s accustomed standard of living.

Alimony, also known as spousal support or maintenance, is not as formulaic. It is determined by things like the duration of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, and yes the standard of living. In high net worth divorces, however, alimony payments can be substantial and last for many years.

What are Pre- and Post-Divorce Asset Planning Strategies?

Pre- and post-divorce asset planning strategies are crucial components of navigating high net worth divorces. Prior to a divorce, pre-divorce asset protection planning involves the use of legal tools and strategies to secure wealth and prepare for potential financial implications. This could involve understanding how assets will be divided, managing debt, and considering factors such as spousal and child support, tax implications, and retirement planning.

Post-divorce, it’s essential to follow up on any financial “loose ends” and re-evaluate your financial plan to adjust for changes in income, expenses, and assets. Organizing finances and reviewing where assets are held can also be a crucial part of this process.

Additionally, asset protection strategies might include the use of prenuptial or postnuptial agreements.

Preparing for Your High Net Worth Divorce

Navigating a high net worth divorce can be a complex endeavor, especially when it involves dividing intricate assets like businesses and real estate. It’s crucial to understand the legal and financial implications of these divisions to ensure an equitable outcome.

While this process can be overwhelming, remember that you don’t have to face it alone. Collaborating with a divorce lawyer can significantly streamline the process.

The Ohiku Law Office specializes in divorce law, child custody and placement, dispute resolution, and more for clients in the Milwaukee area. To find out if Ohiku Law can help with your high net worth divorce, contact us today.

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.

When a marriage starts to break down, couples may face the difficult decision of ending their relationship legally. In Wisconsin, there are two primary options for couples when considering a legal separation or divorce. This blog post will provide an in-depth understanding of the differences between divorce and legal separation in the state of Wisconsin.

At The Ohiku Law Office Milwaukee, we help people navigate the complexities of divorce, family law, mediation, and more. If you’re considering divorce or legal separation, hopefully, this blog will help you make an informed decision based on your unique circumstances. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions.

Legal Requirements for Divorce and Legal Separation

In Wisconsin, both divorce and legal separation require the couple to meet specific legal requirements. The steps involved in each process and the legal implications of choosing one option over the other are as follows:

• Residency Requirement: To file for a divorce or legal separation in Wisconsin, at least one spouse must be a state resident for at least six months and a resident of the county where the action is filed for at least 30 days.
• Grounds: Wisconsin is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that neither spouse needs to prove misconduct by the other spouse. The only ground for divorce or legal separation is the “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage.
• Filing Process: Both divorce and legal separation begin by filing a petition with the appropriate county court. After filing, there is a mandatory 120-day waiting period before the court can finalize the divorce or legal separation.
• Division of Assets and Debts: In both divorce and legal separation, Wisconsin follows the principle of marital property, wherein all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided equally between the spouses unless there is a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement stating otherwise.
• Child Custody and Support: In both cases, the court will determine child custody, placement, and support based on the best interests of the child.
• Spousal Support: The court may award spousal support (also known as alimony) in both divorce and legal separation cases.

When to Choose Divorce Over Legal Separation and Vice Versa

Divorce and legal separation are similar in many ways, but there are some key differences that may make one option more suitable than the other for certain couples.

• Divorce: A divorce legally terminates the marriage, allowing both spouses to remarry. Couples may choose a divorce if they want a clean break and have no intention of reconciling. Divorce provides certainty and closure, which may be beneficial for emotional healing.
• Legal Separation: A legal separation does not dissolve the marriage, meaning that neither spouse can remarry unless they later decide to convert the separation into a divorce. Couples may choose legal separation for various reasons, such as religious beliefs, maintaining health insurance coverage, or preserving certain military benefits.

Financial Considerations

Divorce and legal separation can have different financial implications, such as:

• Tax Consequences: Legally separated couples can still file joint tax returns, which may result in tax savings. Divorced couples must file separate tax returns.
• Social Security Benefits: In some cases, legally separated spouses may still be eligible for Social Security benefits based on their spouse’s work record.
• Debt Liability: In a legal separation, both spouses may still be liable for any debts incurred by the other spouse, even if the court has divided the debts between them.

Basic Pointers for Contemplating Either Option

If you are considering divorce or legal separation, ask yourself the following questions:

• Are you confident that your marriage cannot be salvaged?
• Can you live with the financial implications of your chosen option?
• How will your decision impact your children, if you have any?
• Are there any religious or personal beliefs that may influence your choice?

Understanding the differences between divorce and legal separation in Wisconsin is crucial for couples facing the difficult decision of ending their marriage. By considering the legal requirements, financial implications, and personal circumstances, couples can make an informed decision that best suits their needs. Consulting with an experienced family law attorney, like our team at Ohiku Law Office in Milwaukee, WI, can provide valuable guidance and support during this challenging time. Click here to learn more about Ohiku Law and how we can help you. 

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.

Divorce is an emotionally challenging and complicated process, particularly when it comes to dividing marital assets. Among the assets that most couples worry about during a divorce, is their retirement savings, including 401k accounts.

At Ohiku Law, we understand that divorce can be a complicated and emotionally challenging process. Our experienced divorce attorneys specialize in helping clients navigate the complexities of property division, including the division of 401k accounts. We provide personalized guidance and support to ensure that our client’s rights are protected and their financial futures are secure. Click here to learn more and talk to a divorce attorney in Milwaukee.

If you are divorcing in Wisconsin and have questions about what happens to your 401k in divorce, you are not alone. In this blog post, we will explore the factors that may impact the division of a 401k in a Wisconsin divorce.

Community Property and Exceptions in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is one of few community property states in the United States. Community property means that assets amassed during the course of a marriage are owned equally by both spouses. This rule applies to not only assets but also debt, including mortgages, credit card debt, and loans. In a divorce, all community property is subject to division between both parties.

However, there are exceptions to the rule of community property in Wisconsin. These exceptions to the rule of community property, or the division of marital assets, are known as separate property. Separate property in a divorce is the property that belongs to one spouse or the other and is not eligible for division. Under Wisconsin law, separate property can include:

• Assets or property owned prior to the marriage
• Gifts to one spouse during the marriage
• Inheritances received by one spouse during the marriage
• Property specifically designated in a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement as separate

Dividing property in a divorce can be a complex process. It is essential to identify all assets and debts of the community estate to ensure an equitable division of assets. This process can involve an extensive discovery process that can involve subpoenas for records, appraisals, and depositions to ensure that all assets and liabilities are fully identified.

It is highly recommended that individuals going through a divorce in Wisconsin seek out experienced legal counsel given the complexity of the laws surrounding property division. At Ohiku Law, our experienced attorneys can provide guidance and support throughout the property division process, whether in mediation, arbitration, or traditional litigation. Our goal is to help clients achieve a fair and equitable division of marital assets. We work closely with our clients to prepare for negotiations and consider any factors that may impact the division of property, including tax consequences and the future financial outlook for both parties.

401k and Divorce in Wisconsin

401k plans are considered marital property in Wisconsin, even if one spouse contributed more than the other during the marriage. According to Wisconsin law, 401ks acquired during the marriage must be divided equally between the spouses. This means that each spouse is entitled to 50% of the value of the 401k, regardless of who contributed more to the account during the marriage.

QDRO and 401k Divisions

When divorcing spouses need to divide a 401k, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is required. This is a legal document that separates one owner’s property interest in a retirement account to give the interest to an alternate payee. In the case of divorce, the alternate payee is typically the non-contributing spouse. A QDRO directs the plan administrator to make payments to the alternate payee from the account. It is essential to work with an attorney experienced in drafting QDROs to ensure that the document accurately reflects each spouse’s share.

Tax Implications of Dividing a 401k

It is important to note that the division of a 401k during a divorce can have tax implications. Funds withdrawn from a 401k are typically subject to taxes and early withdrawal penalties. A QDRO can help avoid these penalties. Transfers pursuant to a QDRO are typically neither taxable nor subject to penalties as long as they are made in accordance with the requirements of the order and the Internal Revenue Code.

Alternative Dispute Resolution Options

Litigation is not the only way to resolve property division issues in a divorce. Couples seeking an alternative to the traditional litigated divorce process can consider divorce mediation or arbitration. In divorce mediation, a neutral mediator assists the spouses in reaching an agreement themselves, outside of court. In arbitration, a neutral arbitrator makes decisions on behalf of the parties. Both mediation and arbitration can be faster, less expensive, and more flexible than traditional litigation.

Dividing a 401k during a divorce in Wisconsin can be a complex process. Having an experienced Milwaukee divorce attorney is essential to navigating this process and ensuring that your rights are protected. The Ohiku Law Office specializes in divorce and family law, including alternative dispute resolution options. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you navigate your divorce and protect your financial future.

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.