Divorce happens. It is not pleasant, and one of the least pleasant aspects of it is fairly dividing up the property held by the divorcing couple. When the assets include privately-held businesses, the value of the business becomes a central element in the process. CapVal can provide appraisals of either controlling or minority business interests as well as retirement plans. As Certified Public Accountants, we realize that financial statements are only a starting point in the appraisal process, and we look behind the numbers to define the economic reality of a business operation. Unfortunately, misrepresentation of the financial positions and operating results of a business is a regular occurrence in divorce situations. No forensic accountant can guarantee that he or she will find instances of misrepresentation or defalcation even when they exist, but as Certified Public Accountants, we can often apply skepticism and audit training to find the “behind-the-statement” truth. We can also provide support in valuing deferred compensation-related assets, including options, unvested restricted stock grants, and pensions.
CapVal, LLC