Division of Assets.
Fair & Equitable Starts Here.
When a marriage ends, dividing what you’ve built together can feel overwhelming—especially when emotions run high or finances are deeply intertwined. At Poppy Legal Group, we help clients navigate the division of assets in divorce with clarity, strategy, and a firm focus on fairness.
Massachusetts law calls for an equitable distribution of marital property—not necessarily a 50/50 split, but one that’s fair under the circumstances. Whether your assets are simple or complex, we’re here to protect what matters most and help you move forward with confidence.
What Is Marital Property?
Marital property includes any assets or debts acquired by either spouse during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title or account. This can include:
The family home or other real estate
Retirement accounts (401(k), pensions, IRAs)
Bank accounts and investments
Vehicles, business interests, and valuable personal property
Debts such as credit cards, loans, and mortgages
Some premarital assets or inheritances may be excluded, but in Massachusetts, even separate property can sometimes be divided depending on how it was used or increased in value during the marriage.
How Is Property Divided in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means the court aims for a fair—not necessarily equal—division. When determining how to divide assets and debts, the court may consider:
Length of the marriage
Each spouse’s income, earning capacity, and financial needs
Contributions to the marriage (financial and non-financial)
Conduct during the marriage (in limited circumstances)
Age and health of each party
The needs of any children involved
Judges have broad discretion, but couples also have the opportunity to negotiate and reach their own agreement—often with better long-term outcomes.
High-Asset or Complex Property Cases
If your divorce involves significant assets or complex holdings—like closely held businesses, trusts, stock options, or multiple real estate properties—extra care is required to ensure assets are properly valued and fairly divided.
At Poppy Legal Group, we collaborate with financial professionals and forensic accountants when needed to ensure full transparency and accurate valuation. We also assist clients in uncovering hidden assets or ensuring that retirement accounts are divided properly using Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs).
What About Debt?
Debts—like assets—are divided equitably. This includes:
Joint credit card balances
Auto loans
Mortgages
Student loans (sometimes)
We help clients advocate for fair debt allocation, especially when one party incurred debt for personal or undisclosed reasons.
Can We Decide on Property Division Ourselves?
Yes. Many couples are able to reach an agreement on how to divide their property and debts, either independently or with the help of attorneys or mediators. When you reach a full agreement, it can be submitted to the court for approval as part of your divorce judgment.
We work with clients to review or negotiate proposed property settlements, ensuring your rights are protected and nothing is overlooked.
How Poppy Legal Group Can Help
Asset division isn’t just about numbers—it’s about setting the stage for the next chapter of your life. Whether your property division is amicable or contested, straightforward or complex, our attorneys are here to protect your interests and advocate for a fair outcome.
We’ll help you see the full financial picture and walk you through each step with confidence and clarity.