Property division plays role in Kobe Bryant’s high-asset divorce

High-asset divorces can be quite complex and emotionally draining. For some couples, these divorces raise challenges when it comes to dividing up assets and marital property — especially in cases where there was no prior prenuptial agreements.

The impeding high-profile divorce of NBA star Kobe Bryant and wife Vanessa Bryant is a perfect example of this. The two were married in April 2001, with her mother claiming there was no prenuptial agreement in place. At the time, they probably didn’t see the importance of deciding how assets would be divided in the case of a divorce. This means there is a good chance that Vanessa Bryant will end up with half of her husband’s estimated $150 million net worth.

So far, even though the two are not officially divorced, property division has already taken place, with $18.8 million worth of property being transferred into Vanessa Bryant’s name.

Additionally, aside from possibly receiving half of Kobe Bryant’s net worth, and three mansions, Vanessa Bryant could also end up receiving alimony and child support payments.

This celebrity divorce shows the complicated nature of high-asset divorces. For example, even though Vanessa Bryant has received property, is she entitled to more? What other marital assets were acquired and purchased during the more than 10 years the couple was together?

In general, with any high-asset divorce there are a lot of questions that need to be answered and tensions can run rather high. This is why it’s important to talk with a family law attorney who can help guide a husband or wife through the process to make sure that there is an equitable distribution of assets.

Source: Los Angeles Times, “Kobe Bryant divorce: Couple divides assets despite kiss photo,” Feb. 20, 2012