Expert Appraiser: Trusts, Divorce, Property Tax

As a seasoned courtroom expert appraiser, I have assisted hundreds of clients over the years. Our firm in West Los Angeles gets many calls from folks needing appraisals for estate planning, divorce, trusts, IRS, property tax reductions, and gifting to children. (Click Here for current resume) But the most difficult by far, is divorce. It often is occurring at the same time as other traumatic situations, like job loss, major illness or injury, or other family incidences. This makes it exponentially more challenging to each side, and that is why it is so important to invest in top quality legal support.

Often overlooked is one of the most effective keys to success, the concept of “Pre-emption” in the courtroom. With your legal expert, think ahead to which issues the opposing side might bring up, or what aspects may be most difficult or embarrassing to your case.  

This issue and many other good ideas are presented in a new book by Joseph Cordell, called “ The 10 Stupidest Mistakes Men Make When Facing Divorce”( Three Rivers Press, $15).    (La Times: Divorce attorney wants men to smarten up) In an article with the Los Angeles, Mr. Cordell starts with the financial issue, and then as number 4, lists “Concealing Information”, which reviews this aspect.

Develop a plan on how you can present these issues first, early in the proceedings, before the opposing side has a chance to drill you with it. Think of the financial picture, the social aspects, the memberships and associations, and how they may be mischaracterized by the adversary.

For more information, contact our office at (310) 505-5916, or click on www.eas2.org. Click Here for Expert Appraiser Website