Shreveport Property Division Lawyer

At Knight Law Firm, our Shreveport property division lawyers have extensive experience with divorce proceedings in Louisiana. Call (318) 726-2565 or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Our experience includes matters related to property division. With more than 20 years of legal experience, our attorneys can guide you through your legal options and help you achieve the best possible outcome. 

Don’t hesitate to get the skilled legal assistance you need to start this new chapter of your life. We want to help each of our clients build a new, solid foundation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your options. 

How Knight Law Firm Can Help With a Property Division Matter in Shreveport

How Knight Law Firm, LLC Can Help With a Property Division Matter in Shreveport

Navigating the property division process during a divorce can be overwhelming. You may be uncertain about the steps involved or concerned about the fairness of the outcome. At Knight Law Firm, we understand these challenges and are committed to guiding you every step of the way. 

When you choose our Shreveport family law attorneys, you can expect us to: 

  • Listen to your needs: We start by understanding your goals and priorities, ensuring that our strategy reflects your best interests. 
  • Identify and classify assets: We will help you distinguish between community and separate property, providing clarity in what may otherwise be a complex and confusing situation. 
  • Obtain accurate valuations: Whether it’s your family home or valuable collectibles, we will connect you with reputable experts and appraisers to ensure each asset’s true value is accounted for. 
  • Negotiate fair settlements: We have extensive experience negotiating with opposing counsel and know how to secure agreements that protect your financial interests. 
  • Advocate in court if necessary: If negotiations fail to yield a fair agreement, we are fully prepared to present your case to a judge and seek a favorable ruling on your behalf. 

Our team is dedicated to providing personalized support, effective strategies, and compassionate guidance. By choosing Knight Law Firm, you’ll benefit from our legal insight, local experience, and unwavering commitment to your success. 

Is Louisiana a Community Property State? 

Yes, Louisiana is a community property state. This means that any property and assets acquired during a marriage are generally considered jointly owned by both spouses. Community property will be divided as equally as possible if you get divorced. However, separate property–such as assets owned by one spouse before the marriage, inheritances, and certain other property–will not be divided.

Separate property typically includes: 

  • Property owned by one spouse prior to the marriage 
  • Property received by one spouse through inheritance or donation 
  • Damages awarded to one spouse for their separate property 
  • Property acquired by one spouse through a voluntary division of assets during the marriage

In most cases, community property must be divided 50/50. However, there are exceptions. For example, if the couple signed a valid prenuptial agreement, the court will usually follow the terms of that agreement. Additionally, if a considerable amount of time passes between the divorce and the property division, payments made or debts incurred after the divorce may influence how the property is ultimately divided. 

For more information about property division, or to schedule a consultation with our Shreveport property division lawyers, contact us online today. 

How Is Property Divided in a Divorce? 

Under Louisiana law, community property should be divided equally between the spouses. This doesn’t mean every single asset will be physically split in half. Instead, the court aims to ensure that each spouse receives property (or assets) equal in total value. For example, one spouse may wish to keep the marital home. In that situation, the other spouse would receive assets of a similar total value to ensure a fair distribution. 

Because property division can be complex–particularly when determining which assets are community property and accurately valuing them–it’s wise to consult with an experienced attorney. Our Shreveport property division lawyers can help ensure your interests are protected throughout the process. 

How Is Property Value Determined in a Louisiana Divorce? 

Before community property can be fairly divided, you need a clear picture of its value. Common examples of community property include: 

  • The marital home
  • Furniture and household items 
  • Electronics and appliances 
  • Artwork and collectibles 
  • Vehicles 

If you and your spouse cannot agree on the value of certain assets, expert testimony may be required. For instance, a real estate appraiser can determine a home’s value, while an antique or art appraiser can evaluate high-value decor or artwork. Our team at Knight Law Firm can connect you with reputable experts to ensure accurate valuations. 

Who Appraises the House in a Divorce? 

If you and your spouse can agree on a qualified professional to appraise your home, you may hire that person directly. If you cannot agree, the court may appoint a neutral real estate appraiser to determine the property’s fair market value

How Can Mediation Help Resolve a Property Division Case? 

Mediation can be an effective tool for couples who prefer to resolve property division matters outside of the courtroom. In mediation, both parties meet with a neutral third-party mediator who helps facilitate negotiations. The mediator’s role is to help facilitate settlement. A mediator cannot force you to settle your case. 

There are many benefits to mediation, including: 

  • Greater control: You and your spouse maintain control over the outcome rather than leaving it solely up to a judge. 
  • Cost-effectiveness: Mediation is often less expensive than prolonged litigation. 
  • Speed and efficiency: Mediation sessions can be scheduled with more flexibility. This leads to the potential of reaching resolutions faster than a court trial would allow. 
  • Privacy and confidentiality: Unlike court proceedings, mediation discussions remain private. 
  • Reduced conflict: Working collaboratively can help preserve a more amicable relationship, which is especially important if you share children. Mediation can help foster a more cooperative co-parenting situation. 

While mediation isn’t the right approach for every situation, it can be a beneficial option for many couples. Our property division attorneys at Knight Law Firm are experienced in guiding clients through mediation. We can help you prepare for the process, understand your rights, and ensure that any agreement you reach is fair. Remember, we will fight relentlessly to ensure your best interests are protected. 

How Arbitration Can Be Used to Resolve a Property Dispute? 

Arbitration is another form of alternative dispute resolution. This method helps couples settle property division issues without a lengthy court battle. Unlike mediation, arbitration involves a neutral arbitrator who listens to both parties’ arguments and then makes a binding decision. 

Advantages of arbitration include: 

  • Expert decision-maker: Arbitrators are often experienced family law professionals. These experts understand the nuances of Louisiana’s property division laws. 
  • Faster resolutions: Arbitration proceedings can be scheduled at the parties’ convenience. This can lead to quicker outcomes. 
  • Confidentiality: Arbitration hearings are private, unlike a public court proceeding. 
  • Binding outcomes: The arbitrator’s decision is typically final. This finality reduces the likelihood of prolonged legal battles or appeals. 

Arbitration also involves giving up some control over the final decision. The arbitrator’s ruling is binding, and both parties must abide by it. Before choosing to arbitrate, it is essential to consult with an experienced property division lawyer at Knight Law Firm. Our Shreveport property division lawyers will help you determine the best approach for your case. 

Property Division FAQ

Dividing property during a divorce can be one of the most complicated aspects of the process. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about property division in Louisiana, particularly when it comes to issues like student loans and the division of property itself.

Are Student Loans Community Property? 

Student loans taken out during the marriage are typically considered community debt under Louisiana law. This means you could be responsible for a portion of the student loan balance. You could be responsible even if you did not attend school. However, if the loans were taken out before the marriage, they are considered a separate debt. 

In some cases, the spouse who used community funds to pay off separate student loan debt may need to reimburse the community. Our Shreveport property division lawyers can help you accurately assess student loan debt. We will make sure your community property is divided according to Louisiana law. 

Do You Have to Split Property in a Divorce?  

You don’t necessarily have to follow a strict 50/50 division if you and your spouse can reach a fair agreement on your own. However, the judge will review the agreement to ensure it is equitable. If one spouse is set to receive significantly more, the court may ask questions or propose adjustments before finalizing the divorce. 

Get Help With Your Property and Asset Division Today

Property division can be one of the most challenging aspects of a divorce. At Knight Law Firm, we believe in providing personalized solutions and dedicated advocacy. Whether you suspect your spouse of hiding assets, need help interpreting a prenuptial agreement, or require modifications after your divorce, we are here to guide you. We will take the time to get to know your situation so we can provide high-quality legal representation at every step of the process. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help through a consultation with a Shreveport property division lawyer. We work tirelessly to protect our clients’ interests and ensure a fair division of property and assets in Shreveport and throughout Louisiana.