Self-Employed Litigants — Income Transparency, Financial Analysis & Business Valuation

Self-Employed Litigants — Income Transparency, Financial Analysis & Business Valuation

Self-employment introduces a unique layer of complexity in family law litigation. Unlike traditional W-2 employees, self-employed individuals often control how income is reported, how expenses are categorized, and when money flows through the business. This can make determining true income—and ultimately calculating child support, alimony, and equitable division—far more challenging.

This class focuses on how courts evaluate self-employment income and financial transparency, particularly when determining income available for child support and spousal support. Participants will learn how to interpret business tax returns, profit and loss statements, and other financial records to understand the real financial picture of a self-employed litigant.

The course will also address the heightened scrutiny courts must apply when reviewing self-employment income, including common issues such as business expense deductions, commingling of personal and business finances, cash flow discrepancies, and income deferral.

Participants will learn how to…