Dividing a business between spouses during a divorce in Louisiana

Dividing a business during a divorce can be one of the most complex and contentious issues that a couple endures. Whether a business is owned by one or both spouses, dividing it involves several considerations for equitable distribution.

Determining community property

Any property acquired during marriage is community property and subject to equal division. This includes businesses started or acquired during the marriage, but the court may consider the business as separate property if one of the spouses established it before the marriage.

Business valuation

The first step in dividing a business is to determine its value. A professional business appraiser can do this by assessing elements of the company including:

• Assets
• Liabilities
• Income
• Market position

The valuation process can give an idea about all areas regarding a business’s worth, which is necessary for equitable division.