Country Club Memberships in Divorce in Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Indiana
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 divorce. 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 divorce? 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 after a divorce. Many country clubs have policies that are important to look at in the case of divorce.
Equitably Dividing the Country Club or Golf Membership in St. Louis, Chicago, Kansas City, Indianapolis, Columbia, Springfield, Wichita, Tulsa Oklahoma City, Omaha, Lincoln, and Beyond
Country club memberships cost often cost hundreds of dollars more per month. Some couples prepay 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 evaluated can be important.
In the end, most country clubs will also honor the couple’s divorce 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 members or be prepared to present their case at trial if an agreement is not reached.
In some instances, some clubs provide spouses who were not granted membership with the option to join the club on their own after the divorce 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 a member 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 a divorce. 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.
Stange Law Firm, PC Can Assist With Country Club and Golf Memberships in Divorce in Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Indiana
If you are going through a divorce where a country club or golf membership is an important issue, you can contact us online or call us at 855-805-0595.