Country & Golf Club Memberships | Multi-State Family Lawyers

Country Club Memberships in Dissolution and Domestic Relations Matters

The country club and golf memberships can give a family significant joy. It can be an outlet for adults to find some relaxation through playing golf or tennis. It can also be a place for the whole family. Many country clubs, for example, have great recreational options for the whole family, from pools, tennis courts, restaurant facilities, and the ability to attend special events. Many also form great friendships, bonds, and connections at the golf our country club.

This leaves some divorcing parties to contemplate what is going to happen with their golf and country club membership. For parties who have made the country and golf club a significant part of their life, this can cause stress. The reality is that country club and golf memberships are generally considered marital assets to be divided in a separation. This is particularly true where the country club or golf membership was acquired during the marriage.

The question many then have is who gets the country club membership in the dissolution? While it may be more cumbersome to divide intangible items such as these on the surface, country club memberships can be subject to equitable distribution. This means that it will be divided in a just manner when considering all the factors. On the surface, this may seem vague. But the reality is that the country or golf club membership is treated as any other marital asset.

For many, they might need to figure out how they and their spouse want to handle the membership. It can also be important to figure out the club’s policies to determine how memberships are handled should a marriage end. Many country clubs have policies that are important to look at in the case of dissolution.

Equitably Dividing Country Club or Golf Memberships

Country club memberships often cost hundreds of dollars or more per month. Some couples prepay for a certain period in advance, which can make this a significant asset. Additionally, the right to use the country club may be very important for both parties. Some parties may even own stock in the country club. In this scenario, getting the stock valued can be important.

In the end, most country clubs will also honor the couple’s dissolution order or separation agreement and grant the membership accordingly. This is why most parties will want to ensure that they negotiate thoroughly about the country or golf club membership, or be prepared to present their case at trial if an agreement is not reached.

In some instances, clubs provide spouses who were not granted membership with the option to join the club on their own after the case is finalized. Of course, in some cases, parties may not want to do this and may find it uncomfortable to be members of the same club. But if both parties want to stay members of the same club, some clubs will give a break on the initial fees to the second spouse.

What if You Cannot be a Member?

Some clubs have fairly strict membership requirements and will not allow both spouses to retain privileges simultaneously after their marriage ends. If this is the case, the spouse listed as the primary member will often be granted the membership or stocks. Secondary members on the policy might request half the estimated value. They can then choose to join another country or golf club of their choosing.