When Stocks and Bonuses Matter: Navigating Complex Asset Division in Divorces | Episode 235

Welcome back to Divorce at Altitude with Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha! After a short break, Ryan and Amy return to unpack one of the most complicated aspects of modern divorce: how to value and divide complex assets like restricted stock units (RSUs), stock options, and other forms of deferred compensation.From tech employees with performance-based RSUs to professionals with future bonuses or stock grants, these assets can significantly impact property division — but are often misunderstood or overlooked. Drawing from Amy’s recent presentation at the Family Law Institute in Vail, this episode breaks down how these assets are classified, valued, and divided under Colorado law.Episode HighlightsUnderstanding RSUs & Stock Options • How restricted stock units (RSUs) differ from stock options • What “vesting” really means and why timing matters during divorceValuation & Expert Roles • When to bring in valuation experts or use the “time rule” formula • How constructive trusts help divide assets that aren’t yet liquid • The difference between joint, shadow, and rebuttal expertsLegal & Tax Complexities • How courts determine marital vs. separate property for RSUs • The role of employment agreements and performance-based vesting • Common pitfalls when ignoring tax implications and timingKey Takeaways • Complex assets require both legal and financial expertise — don’t try to DIY. • Early identification and documentation can prevent major disputes later. • Work with your attorney and valuation expert to build a clear, fair strategy.What is Divorce at Altitude? Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here. If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected]. ************************************************************************ DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

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