In a community like Rancho Santa Fe, where affluence, property, and prestige intersect, divorce isn’t just emotionally taxing; it can be legally and financially complex. When the stakes are high, so is the need for experienced, results-driven legal representation that understands the intricacies of high-net-worth divorce. At Neumann Family Law, A.P.C., we understand that divorce isn’t just about dissolving a marriage—it’s about protecting what matters most: your children, your assets, your reputation, and your future.
With over 75 years of combined legal experience, our team is steadfast in our commitment to resolving complex divorce cases with skill, discretion, and tenacity. Our Rancho Santa Fe divorce attorneys proudly serve the community by providing strategic legal counsel for those facing high-asset divorces, including business owners, corporate executives, medical professionals, engineers, and other affluent professionals.
What is a High-Asset Divorce in Rancho Santa Fe?
High-asset divorces are different. The volume and diversity of property involved require a sophisticated understanding of California community property law, forensic accounting, and complex valuation strategies. In Rancho Santa Fe, where multimillion-dollar homes, privately held businesses, investment portfolios, and intricate compensation packages are common, divorce is rarely straightforward.
The Rancho Santa Fe divorce lawyers at our family law firm handle the following valuable assets in property division:
- Multiple real estate holdings (including the marital residence and rental properties)
- Business interests and closely held corporations
- Retirement accounts and pensions
- Stock options, RSUs, and deferred compensation plans
- Trusts and inheritance tracing
- Art, jewelry, vehicles, and other high-value personal property
Every asset must be classified, valued, and divided.
Protecting Separate Property: Your Legacy Matters
In California, not all assets are subject to division. With that said, proving that certain property is your separate property—whether acquired before marriage, by inheritance, or as a gift—requires careful tracing and documentation.
At Neumann Family Law, A.P.C., our Rancho Santa Fe divorce attorneys work with forensic accountants and valuation experts to conduct separate property analyses. Our goal is to ensure that what’s yours stays yours. This is particularly important in divorces where separate property might be commingled with community property in real estate investments, family businesses, or high-value brokerage accounts.
Firm founder Sara Neumann, CFLS* and 2021–2025 Super Lawyers honoree, has 27 years of divorce litigation experience. Edward Castro, CFLS* and 2022–2025 Super Lawyers honoree, has 31 years’ experience. The firm handles the longer and more complicated high net worth divorce or post judgment trials, involving complex business/asset valuations, tracing issues, support, and custody.
Valuation of Businesses and Complex Assets
In divorces involving substantial assets, business valuation is generally one of the most contentious issues. Whether you or your spouse owns a medical practice, a tech startup, a law firm, or a family business, it must be evaluated for its community interest. Our family law attorney will work with top-tier financial professionals to ensure valuations are both accurate and defensible.
We work with experts to analyze:
- Corporate structures and ownership agreements
- Revenue streams and cash flow
- Asset valuation
- Income generated for support purposes
- Goodwill (personal vs. enterprise)
- Buy/sell agreements
- Tax implications of asset division
Our litigation experience in business division and other large marital assets, such as commercial real estate holdings, sets us apart when negotiations fail and a trial becomes necessary.
Spousal and Child Support: Striking the Right Balance
In high-net-worth divorces, determining appropriate child support and spousal support isn’t just a matter of applying a formula. Judges usually have discretion, especially when you are a high earner with an income that exceeds one million dollars. Guideline support may, or may not, be appropriate in a high income analysis.
We consider:
- Lifestyle during marriage
- Length of marriage
- Earning capacity and career sacrifices
- Future financial planning
- Children’s educational and extracurricular needs
- Children’s needs to share in the lifestyle of the high-earner parent
Our mission is to secure fair and sustainable support outcomes in family law matters—whether you’re seeking support or being asked to pay it.
Child Custody and Move-Away Cases
The divorce process affects more than finances. It impacts families. At Neumann Family Law, A.P.C., we approach custody issues with empathy and tenacity. Our experienced San Diego, CA attorney will fiercely advocate for our clients while always centering the well-being of the child.
Custody issues we handle include:
- Joint and sole custody agreements
- Parenting plans and visitation schedules
- Move-away cases involving relocation out of San Diego County or out of state
- UCCJEA litigation for interstate custody disputes
Custody conflicts in divorce proceedings can be emotionally overwhelming. We are here to provide clear guidance and strong representation on all family law issues in high-asset divorce cases.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
While we are seasoned trial attorneys, we are also skilled negotiators. In cases where both parties are willing, mediation can provide a private, cost-effective way to resolve disputes. Sara Neumann, CFLS* mediates cases for other attorneys, reflecting the trust our peers place in her judgment and skill.
Mediation allows couples to:
- Stay out of court
- Maintain confidentiality
- Control the outcome
- Reduce conflict and emotional toll
Our attorneys walk into every mediation prepared to advocate and protect your interests while encouraging productive, solution-focused dialogue.
Why Rancho Santa Fe Clients Choose Neumann Family Law, A.P.C.
We understand the caliber of service Rancho Santa Fe families expect. We deliver more.
- Board-Certified Family Law Specialists by the State Bar of California
- Award-winning attorneys with decades of focused experience
- Known trial warriors who don’t back down from complex litigation
- Reputation for results, reinforced by glowing client testimonials
- Discreet, strategic representation that protects your public image and private wealth
- Complimentary consultation with a divorce attorney—get answers before making major decisions
When you work with us, you’ll talk to a real lawyer who listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and builds a case strategy around your goals. We’re direct, responsive, and relentlessly thorough.
Divorce is Difficult. Make Your First Choice the Right Choice.
Divorce doesn’t have to mean chaos. At Neumann Family Law, A.P.C., we help Rancho Santa Fe clients make informed, empowered decisions every step of the way. Whether you’re facing a contested high-asset divorce, a contentious custody dispute, or need help protecting separate property, we’re the team to call.
There’s no substitute for knowledge and experience in the handling of high-net-worth, complex divorce litigation. With over 75 years of combined family law experience, we offer the strategic counsel, trial readiness, and compassionate support you need.
Call us today at (619) 282-1107 to schedule your complimentary consultation with a seasoned divorce attorney. Let Neumann Family Law, A.P.C. help protect your property, your family, and your peace of mind.
*CFLS = Certified Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization