Note that information given in this section cannot take the place of independent legal or financial divorce advice. Please read our disclaimer.

California is a community-property state. If a business was started during the marriage, the business is community property, and basically, each spouse owns half of it. If the business was started before the marriage, there still may be some community-property interest in the business. The court has to determine the marital value; this is not fair-market value. An expert appraiser is appointed to determine the marital value and the community-property interest in the business. Each spouse has input with the expert appraiser.

Georgine Brave is a San Diego divorce lawyer dedicated to assisting her clients through the family-law process with understanding and support. Brave, Weber & Mack offers family lawyers with knowledge, experience, and strong advocacy skills to support clients through any divorce issues. She can be reached at (619) 234-2121. View their Divorce Magazine profile.