Inside High-Net-Worth Divorce: Strategic Insights from Regina M. Campbell, Esq. of The Campbell Law Group

Family law becomes significantly more complex when high-net-worth individuals are involved—bringing with it intricate assets, privacy concerns, and high emotional stakes. To better understand how these cases are handled, we spoke with Regina M. Campbell, Esq., managing partner of The Campbell Law Group. Known for her strategic approach to asset protection, dispute resolution, and navigating Florida’s legal nuances, Regina offers professional insight into guiding clients through high-stakes family matters with clarity, discretion, and confidence.

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What are the unique challenges in handling family law cases for high-net-worth individuals?

Regina Campbell: Family law cases involving high-net-worth individuals are often incredibly complex, largely due to the intricate nature of their financial portfolios and assets. These cases often encompass a wide range of assets, including business interests, real estate holdings, stock portfolios, trusts, international investments, and other high-value properties, many of which may be structured across multiple jurisdictions. This complexity requires not just legal acumen but a deep understanding of business, finance, and asset tracing.

One of the most significant challenges in these matters is identifying, valuing, and classifying assets as either marital or non-marital, particularly when steps have been taken—deliberately or otherwise— to obscure ownership or commingle funds. In some cases, assets are held in shell companies or offshore accounts, or they involve closely held businesses with unclear valuations. Add to this the emotional weight of divorce, especially when children, legacy assets, or family-owned businesses are involved, and it becomes a delicate balance between legal strategy and compassionate counsel.

For me, it’s not just about litigating a case; it’s about helping my clients make informed decisions during one of the most difficult periods of their lives. I see my role as part legal advisor, part strategist, and part protector of what they’ve built. My focus is always on bringing clarity to that complexity, safeguarding my client’s interests, and guiding them toward a resolution that is both legally sound and financially prudent, always keeping their best interests at the forefront.

Regina Campbell, managing partner of The Campbell Law Group

How do you approach asset protection in divorce or separation cases involving significant wealth?

Regina Campbell: Asset protection begins well before a dispute arises. For high-net-worth individuals, taking a proactive approach is key. This often means structuring assets strategically—through trusts, corporate entities, or carefully drafted prenuptial and postnuptial agreements—to ensure that personal and business interests are protected in the event of a divorce or separation. Planning ahead provides greater control and significantly reduces the risk of prolonged litigation down the line and provides better assurances that assets will be protected as intended.

When a divorce or separation is underway, our approach becomes highly analytical and detail-driven. We work closely with our clients, taking a forensic view of the financial landscape, examining everything from tax returns and financial statements to business ownership structures and asset flows. This collaborative process helps us determine not only the value of the assets but also how they’ve been managed, transferred, or commingled over time.

At The Campbell Law Group, our focus is always on transparency, accuracy, and fairness. With our extensive experience in handling high-net-worth divorce cases, we work to protect what rightfully belongs to our client and advocate for an asset division that reflects both the legal framework and the economic realities of their situation. Ultimately, we aim to deliver outcomes that are just, sustainable, and support our client’s long-term interests.

What legal strategies can be employed to ensure a fair and equitable division of assets in a complex divorce?

Regina Campbell: In high-stakes divorces, achieving a fair and equitable division of assets requires both thorough preparation and thoughtful legal strategy. The first step is always to establish a complete and accurate financial picture. We begin with an exhaustive inventory of all assets and liabilities. This includes real estate, investment portfolios, retirement accounts, business holdings, intellectual property, and even less obvious assets such as stock options or deferred compensation.

Once we have this comprehensive overview, we assess the nature of each asset: whether it is marital or non-marital, how it was acquired, and whether it has been commingled. In some cases, we’ll bring in outside professionals, such as forensic accountants or valuation experts, to assess business interests, determine fair market value, or investigate the possibility of hidden or undervalued assets. We may also conduct a lifestyle analysis to compare reported income against spending, which can help reveal discrepancies or financial misconduct.

With a solid financial foundation established, we then evaluate the most appropriate path forward, whether that’s private negotiation, structured mediation, or litigation. While we always aim to resolve matters amicably and efficiently, we are prepared to litigate when necessary to protect our client’s interests.

It’s also important to remember that in Florida, equitable distribution does not mean assets are split 50/50 by default. Rather, the court looks at what is equitable and reasonable under the circumstances. That means factors like each spouse’s contribution to the marriage, future financial needs, parties agreements and the economic impact of divorce are all considered.

Our role is to advocate clearly and effectively for our client’s position, ensuring their contributions and future are properly accounted for. Ultimately, we aim for a resolution that reflects the law, the realities of the situation, and our client’s best interests, providing a foundation for long-term financial stability.

Can you describe your approach to dispute resolution in high- conflict family law cases?

Regina Campbell: High-conflict family law cases require more than just legal expertise. They require strategic calm, emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage both legal complexity and heightened emotions. These cases often involve deeply personal issues, such as custody, financial control, or longstanding resentment, which can make resolution especially challenging. Our approach is to lead with focus and composure, helping clients stay grounded while keeping their long-term interests front and center.

De-escalation is a key part of the process. I always begin by trying to reduce hostility and shift the conversation toward constructive resolution. In many cases, alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or collaborative divorce can be highly effective. These approaches not only reduce legal expenses and time spent in court, but they also give the parties more control over the outcome, something particularly valuable when reputational or privacy concerns are involved.

However, not every case can or should be resolved outside of court. When litigation becomes necessary, we are fully prepared to advocate vigorously on behalf of my client. That means presenting a clear, compelling case based on strong evidence, sound legal reasoning, and a deep understanding of the nuances involved.

What sets our firm apart is our ability to balance strong legal representation with steady, compassionate support throughout the process. We understand that our clients are not just dealing with legal issues. They’re also managing the emotional and practical challenges that come with life transitions. Our goal is always to reach a resolution that protects our client’s rights and dignity, while setting the stage for a more stable and manageable future.

How do you help clients navigate prenuptial or postnuptial agreements to safeguard their assets?

Regina Campbell: Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are among the most effective tools for safeguarding assets and setting clear expectations in the event of a separation or divorce. For high-net-worth individuals, these agreements can play a critical role in protecting generational wealth, business interests, and other valuable holdings that could otherwise become entangled in costly legal disputes.

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When working with clients, we always take a highly personalized approach. No two situations are the same, so each agreement must be tailored to reflect the specific circumstances, goals, and concerns of the parties involved. This includes identifying key assets to protect, outlining how income and liabilities will be handled during the marriage, and clearly defining terms for property division or spousal support if the marriage ends.

To ensure enforceability, the legal process must be handled with great care. That means full and honest financial disclosure from both parties, ample time for review and negotiation, and each party being represented by their own independent counsel. We also use clear, straightforward language to avoid ambiguity and prevent misunderstandings in the future.

Timing is equally important. These agreements should be discussed and finalized well in advance of the wedding or any triggering events, not under pressure or in haste. When done correctly, a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement not only protects assets but also helps both parties enter the relationship with transparency and peace of mind.

In my experience, having a well-drafted, professionally executed agreement in place can prevent unnecessary conflict down the road and provide a strong foundation for a secure financial future, regardless of what life brings.

How do you ensure confidentiality and privacy for your clients in sensitive family law matters?

Regina Campbell: Confidentiality is a fundamental principle in every family law case we handle, particularly for clients whose personal or professional reputations could be impacted by public exposure. High-net-worth and high-profile individuals often face unique risks when sensitive matters become part of the public record or attract media attention; our firm takes every precaution to prevent this.

We implement strict protocols to protect client privacy at every stage of the process. This includes advising the client how to proceed and maintain privacy in their lives during these tumultuous times, attempt to mediate the case privately prior to the filing of a dissolution action and strongly advocate the use of the collaborative divorce process which is designed to ensure the maximum privacy for family law cases. When appropriate, we petition the court to seal records, limit public access to hearings, or file under confidential case numbers to make sure that personal or financial details remain protected.

Our clients come to us not only for legal guidance, but also because they know we will protect their privacy, dignity, and peace of mind. We understand the importance of discretion, and we take that responsibility seriously in every action we take.

Florida has specific laws around asset division in divorce, including unique rules regarding marital property. How does Florida’s equitable distribution law impact high-net-worth individuals in divorce cases?

Regina Campbell: Florida adheres to the principle of equitable distribution, which means that marital assets are divided in a manner the court deems fair, not necessarily equal. While this approach offers flexibility, it also introduces complexity, particularly in high-net-worth divorce cases involving substantial and varied assets.

For individuals with significant wealth, one of the most critical steps is distinguishing between marital and non-marital property. This can be particularly challenging when pre-marital assets have appreciated in value during the marriage or when business income, investments, or real estate holdings have been commingled. The line between what is shared and what is separate can quickly become blurred without careful documentation and legal analysis of the source of the income, timing and nature of investment instruments and corporate structure and governance agreements which may already be in place for any business interest owned by either party.

The court considers several factors when determining equitable distribution, including each spouse’s financial and non-financial contributions to the marriage, their current and future economic circumstances, the duration of the marriage, pre or post marital agreements and any interruptions to career or education for the sake of the family. For high-net-worth individuals, additional considerations may include the role each spouse played in building or supporting a business, tax implications of asset division, and the potential need to divide complex compensation packages or investment portfolios.

Our role is to bring clarity to these issues and to present well-supported arguments that reflect both the letter and spirit of Florida law. Whether through negotiation or litigation, our goal is to make sure that the outcome is not only legally sound but also reflects the true contributions and entitlements of our client within the context of the marriage.

Florida is a key state for prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. How do you ensure these agreements hold up in court, especially in high-net-worth cases?

Regina Campbell: For a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement to be enforceable in Florida, it must satisfy several legal requirements. These include full and fair disclosure of each party’s financial circumstances, voluntary execution free of coercion or duress, and terms that are not unconscionable at the time of signing or enforcement. These requirements apply to all couples, but in high-net-worth cases, the scrutiny is significantly higher, given the complexity, value, and structure of the assets involved.

That’s why we take a highly meticulous and comprehensive approach to drafting these agreements. We make sure that both parties provide complete and accurate financial disclosures, including income, assets, debts, and any business or investment interests. We also strongly recommend—and help facilitate—independent legal counsel for both parties. This not only reinforces the fairness of the process but also strengthens the agreement’s enforceability should it ever be challenged.

Each agreement is custom-made to the client’s specific situation. We draft terms that reflect current financial realities while also anticipating potential future changes, such as the growth of a business, the acquisition of new property, or the arrival of children. Clauses are written clearly and concisely to prevent ambiguity or misinterpretation, which are common reasons agreements are invalidated.

If a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement is ever contested, our team is fully prepared to defend its validity and enforce its terms. We draw on our deep knowledge of Florida law, our experience handling high-net-worth matters, and the detailed documentation created during the drafting process. Whether during negotiations or in court, we advocate assertively to make sure that our client’s interests are protected and that the agreement they entered into with care and foresight stands as intended.

With Florida’s popularity as a vacation home destination, how do you handle custody and child support cases when parents live in different states or countries?

Regina Campbell: Custody and child support cases that involve parents living in different states—or even different countries—present unique jurisdictional and logistical challenges. These situations are increasingly common in Florida, given its popularity as a vacation home destination and its appeal to international families and business professionals who often have ties in multiple locations.

When managing these cases, we begin by determining which court has the legal authority, or jurisdiction, to hear the matter. In the United States, this is typically governed by the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), which is designed to prevent conflicting rulings across state lines and to promote stability for the child. For international matters, we look to applicable treaties such as the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, which helps ensure that custody and access rights are respected and enforceable across borders.

Beyond the legal framework, these cases require a thoughtful approach. We work to develop parenting plans and support agreements that are not only legally enforceable but also practical and respectful of each parent’s location, work commitments, and cultural context. This often involves negotiating detailed travel schedules, communication plans, and provisions for decision-making responsibilities, particularly when there are time zone differences or language and schooling considerations.

We also understand that international and interstate custody matters can be emotionally difficult and highly sensitive, especially when relocation or extended separation from a child is involved. We approach each case with a combination of strategic foresight and empathy, always keeping the child’s best interests at the center of our recommendations.

Our goal is to resolve these matters with minimal conflict while making sure our client’s rights are protected and their children are supported in a stable and secure environment, no matter where they live.

For more information, visit:

The Campbell Law Group P.A.

2121 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Suite 540

Coral Gables, FL 33134

Phone: (305) 460-0145

www.thecampbelllawgroup.com

Email: info@thecampbelllawgroup.com

By ML Staff. Photos/The Campbell Law Group P.A.