Addresses valuation methods and issues for personal property, investments, real estate, retirement benefits and closely held businesses. The discussion of retirement benefits includes a review of the case law relating to the classification of the marital and non-marital portion of the benefits. The discussion of closely held businesses includes a review of the case law relating to personal and enterprise goodwill.

Addresses the investigation stage of asset valuation in matrimonial litigation. To properly classify and value the parties’ assets, relevant information and materials must be obtained and analyzed. A combination of formal discovery and independent investigations is advocated.

Identifies and explains significant asset valuation issues that arise in matrimonial litigation. The focus is on valuation issues relating to division of assets between the spouses which is governed by Section 503 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (“IMDMA”). 750 ILCS 5/503.