Divorce Attorney in Austin, TX

Divorce Representation for Families in Austin

Austin is at the center of one of the fastest growing wealth markets in Texas. Many of the divorces we handle involve assets that go well beyond a house and a savings account, including equity in private companies, stock options and restricted stock units (RSUs), ownership interests in startups, and high value real estate in Westlake, Lakeway, and Lake Travis. When the marital estate is substantial and financially complex, the way property is characterized and valued can significantly affect the outcome.

Lackey Law Firm, P.C. represents clients throughout Austin and the surrounding Hill Country from our office at the Hill Country Galleria in Bee Cave. We provide strategic, detail focused representation for high asset divorce cases where protecting your financial future is the priority.

Understanding Texas Community Property Laws in High Asset Divorces

Texas is a community property state, meaning that most assets acquired during the marriage are presumed to belong to the marital estate and are subject to division. Property owned before marriage or received through a gift or inheritance is generally considered separate property.

In divorces, however, distinguishing between community and separate property is often far more complicated. Stock awarded before marriage but vested afterward, businesses that expanded during the marriage, and separate funds deposited into joint accounts frequently require detailed tracing and financial analysis. Our team works to identify, document, and protect your separate property interests.

High Value Assets Commonly Divided in Austin Divorces

Our firm regularly handles cases involving:

• Stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), and other equity compensation

• Ownership interests in privately held businesses, partnerships, and startups

• Professional practices and business goodwill

• Investment portfolios, retirement accounts, and deferred compensation

• Primary residences, luxury homes, lakefront properties, and investment real estate throughout Travis and Hays Counties

Business Valuation and Equity Compensation

Accurate valuation is one of the most important aspects of a high asset divorce. Closely held businesses, startup equity, and unvested stock awards often require sophisticated financial analysis.

We work with business valuation experts, forensic accountants, and tax professionals when necessary to ensure assets are properly valued and accurately presented during settlement negotiations or litigation.

Mediation and Collaborative Divorce for Couples

Not every high asset divorce needs to be resolved in court. Alicia Lackey is a certified mediator with collaborative law training, allowing many clients to resolve complex financial matters privately.

Mediation and collaborative divorce can protect confidential financial information, provide greater control over the outcome, reduce conflict, and often lower the overall cost of the divorce. If settlement is not possible, we are fully prepared to advocate for your interests in court.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are facing a  divorce in Austin, Lackey Law Firm, P.C. can help protect your financial interests and guide you through every stage of the process.

Call 512.501.1618 or contact us to schedule a confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Texas a 50 50 state in a divorce?

No. Texas law requires courts to divide community property in a manner that is “just and right.” While that may result in an equal division, courts may also consider factors such as earning capacity, separate property, health, and fault in the breakup of the marriage.

How are stock options and RSUs divided in an Austin divorce?

It depends on when the awards were granted, what they were intended to compensate, and when they vest. Equity earned during the marriage is generally considered community property, while awards tied to future employment may be treated differently. Proper tracing of grant and vesting dates is essential.

Can we keep the details of our divorce private?

Often, yes. Mediation and collaborative divorce allow many couples to resolve financial issues outside of open court, helping keep sensitive business and financial information private.