When a business is involved in a family law property settlement, most people naturally think about physical assets such as property, equipment, or cash. However, some of the most valuable assets in a business cannot be seen or touched. These are known as intangible assets . They include things such as brands, customer relationships, software, intellectual property, and goodwill. In many businesses, these intangible assets represent a significant portion of the overall value.

When a couple separates and a business forms part of the asset pool, determining its true value becomes a critical step in reaching a fair property settlement. For many families, the business may represent years of effort, income security, and future financial stability. However, valuing a business is rarely straightforward. Questions quickly arise. Is the valuation based on the whole business or only a shareholding? Does the interest represent control? Are there non-operatin

When a business valuation is used in a family law dispute, the final number is only part of the story. Courts, lawyers, and the parties involved must understand how that number was reached. Without clear documentation and transparent reporting, even a well prepared valuation can be questioned or challenged. This is where IVS 106: Documentation and Reporting becomes critical. The International Valuation Standards require valuers to clearly document their work and produce a re

When a business valuation is prepared for a family law matter, the numbers presented in the report can significantly influence the outcome of a property settlement. However, the valuation itself is only as reliable as the information used to produce it. Financial statements, industry benchmarks, market transactions, and business forecasts all form part of the evidence used to determine value. If the wrong information is used, or if the data is unreliable, the final valuation

When a marriage or de facto relationship breaks down, dividing assets can quickly become complex. This is especially true when one or both parties own a business. Determining what that business is worth is rarely straightforward. A key issue is not only how the business is valued, but what definition of value is being used . This is where IVS 102 Bases of Value becomes important. The International Valuation Standards explain that the “basis of value” sets the foundation for