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Asset Pool Division in Family Law Property Settlements

asset pool division | Justice Family Lawyers

Family Law property settlements involve the division of assets that have been accumulated while a couple is married or in a de facto relationship.

The ‘asset pool’ is a concept used to divide the property in a value-neutral way, meaning no one spouse is advantaged or disadvantaged.

To ensure a balanced division of assets, it is important to understand the principles of dividing an asset pool by the Family Law Act. In this article, Justice Family Lawyers will guide readers through the key points to consider when dividing an asset pool in the context of a Family Law property settlement.

What is an Asset Pool?

An asset pool is often referred to as the ‘assets and liabilities’ of a couple.

It is the sum of all of the resources accumulated by a couple throughout the marriage or de facto relationship.

This includes any financial or real property such as the family home, and can also include other items such as shares, trusts, and vehicles. The asset pool also includes any debts owned by the couple.

We find that it helps clients if they use a spreadsheet or table to put all of their assets and liabilities on a balance sheet so they can see clearly what needs to be split.

A balance sheet can be a valuable tool in achieving a financial settlement during a breakup because it provides a snapshot of a person’s financial position.

Asset Pool Division

Example of Assets for Division in a Pool

  1. Real estate: This can include residential or commercial properties, land, and any improvements made to the property.
  2. Personal property: This includes tangible items such as furniture, artwork, jewelry, vehicles, and other personal possessions.
  3. Financial assets: This can include bank accounts, shares and superannuation.
  4. Business: If one of the parties owns a business, the value of that business may be divided as part of the asset pool.
  5. Debts: Any liabilities or debts associated with the parties.

Assets are typically divided in a divorce based on factors such as equitable distribution laws, prenuptial agreements, and the specific circumstances of each case.

A property settlement lawyer can play a vital role in helping you with the division of assets during a divorce by maximising the amount you receive from a property settlement.

Family lawyers typically charge between 10 – 30k for their services, meaning that if they can negotiate an amount or obtain an amount higher than that, it would be a good idea to engage one.

Also read: What is a Financial Separation Agreement and Its Importance

Two Pool Approach Family Law

The “two pool approach” in family law, particularly in the context of Australian family law proceedings, is a method used to deal with different categories of assets during property settlement disputes in a divorce or separation. 

This approach recognizes that not all assets and financial resources should be treated the same way for the purposes of division. 

Therefore, assets are categorized into two distinct “pools” for evaluation and distribution.

Pool 1: Matrimonial Assets

This pool typically includes assets that have been accumulated or improved by the efforts of both parties during the relationship. 

It can comprise the family home, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, and other tangible properties. 

These assets are usually considered joint contributions and are subject to division based on the principles of fairness and equity.

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Pool 2: Special Contributions or External Resources

The second pool consists of assets that may have been brought into the relationship by one party, inheritances received by one party, personal injury settlements, or gifts. 

These assets are considered separately because they are not the product of the joint financial efforts of the parties in the same way as the matrimonial assets. 

The division of these assets takes into account the nature of the contribution and its impact on the overall financial circumstances of the parties.

The “two pool approach” allows for a more nuanced and equitable division of property by acknowledging that different assets may have different origins and significance to the parties involved. 

It provides a framework for acknowledging individual contributions and external factors that should influence the settlement outcome. 

However, the application of this approach can vary significantly based on the specifics of each case, and the discretion of the court plays a crucial role in determining how assets are categorized and divided. 

The objective remains to achieve a just and equitable division of property that reflects the contributions made by each party to the relationship, both financial and non-financial.

Conclusion

Justice Family Lawyers have the specialist knowledge and experience to assist you in understanding these complexities and providing you with the best possible outcome in a Family Law property settlement.

10 thoughts on “Asset Pool Division in Family Law Property Settlements”

  1. Question:
    EX de-facto & I split up 12/9/21 and we had been together for 10yrs
    (So currently over the 2yr rule to make a claim through the courts?).

    I currently have two properties, one investment and one privately owned (but both still have mortgages owing on them).

    We have a 8yr old child together, but we have no written agreement for the maintenance, as we both share equally the cost to look after our child.

    My main question is….., Can the Ex still make a claim through the courts for a percentage of my assets even though the two years separation has elapsed?

    (Side note: The Ex contributed to nothing as all assets are in my name and all payments were made by myself, and I bought the properties prior to meeting the Ex defacto.)

    Thank you

  2. Hi
    Could you advise please on how an inheritance could be considered in the division of assets noting that my equal share is to be held on trust and is up to the absolute discretion of the executors of the will to determine when and in what proportion is to be distribute to either myself and or both of my children ? Also noting that there have been no release or distributions of any funds to any of the beneficiaries from the estate of the deceased at this point.
    Have there been any precedent cases that you are aware of that could shed some light on this situation?
    Kindest
    Gabby

    1. Hi, the inclusion of inheritance in the asset pool can vary, depending on factors such as the duration of the relationship, separation date, and financial/non-financial contributions made during the relationship. For personalised advice tailored to your situation, it is advisable to consult with an experienced solicitor.

  3. Could you advise
    Me and my ex put all the assets and liabilities in the property pool.
    How will this work out, can you give the example break down in number?

    We have two properties during in our relationship.
    – Property A value $500k, mortgage $200k
    – Property B value &250k, mortgage $15,000

    If I wanted to keep the property B. Can you workout,
    How does it work in number please?

    Thanks

    1. Hi, there is no exact formula for calculating how the properties will be divided after separation. The property split would depend on various factors including the length of the relationship, each of your financial and non-financial contributions and future needs. It is always advisable to seek guidance from an experienced family lawyer for advice tailored to your specific circumstances to ensure that the division is fair and your interests are protected.

  4. We have a 16yr old child and other party is out at least 60% of the time they are home. Would this be considered when looking at care arrangements and finances etc

    1. The amount of time each parent spends with the child can significantly influence care arrangements and financial considerations, as it is taken into account as a non-financial contribution in property settlements. If one parent is absent for at least 60% of the time, this will likely be considered when determining the best interests of the child, potentially affecting custody arrangements and child support obligations.

  5. Hi, My my husband and I have been separated for 2.5 years but have not agreed on a property settlement. Most of our finances have been kept separate ie. we have separate bank accounts, share holdings, superannuation. Would the 2 pool approach be applicable in our situation? The only asset we share is the house. I have been paying 100% of the mortgage since separation. During the marriage, I was still paying 100% of the mortgage and he made some additional payments. Bills were shared. What % would be a reasonable split?

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