Why are art and antique appraisals important during divorce proceedings?

Professional appraisals provide objective valuations to ensure equitable division of marital assets that include art, antiques, or collectibles.

Are ARTXPRT appraisals accepted in court or mediation?

Yes. Our USPAP-compliant reports are accepted by courts, mediators, and attorneys nationwide for use in marital dissolution and asset division cases.

What type of valuation is used for marital asset division?

Fair market value is typically used to determine each item’s worth under current market conditions for equitable asset division.

Can ARTXPRT provide testimony in divorce cases involving disputed art values?

Yes. Our appraisers are qualified to provide expert witness testimony and documentation in cases where valuations are contested.

Does ARTXPRT maintain confidentiality in sensitive legal matters?

Absolutely. We handle all marital dissolution appraisals with strict confidentiality and professionalism to protect client privacy.

Marital Dissolution

Marital Dissolution & Asset Division Appraisals

Dividing assets during a divorce can be one of the most challenging aspects of the process—especially when fine art, antiques, or collectibles are involved. Establishing fair, defensible values for these unique items requires expertise, discretion, and complete objectivity.

Since 1975, Robert Levy of ARTXPRT – The Beverly Hills Appraisal Company has specialized in marital dissolution and asset division appraisals, providing impartial valuations that help attorneys, mediators, and private clients resolve property settlements equitably and efficiently.

Serving clients throughout Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Orange County, Santa Barbara, and San Diego, ARTXPRT delivers USPAP-compliant appraisals accepted by courts, legal professionals, and financial institutions.

Why You Need a Professional Appraisal in Divorce Settlements

When artwork, antiques, jewelry, or decorative objects are part of a marital estate, determining their fair division requires accurate valuation. Unlike financial accounts or real estate, these assets often have fluctuating market values influenced by provenance, rarity, artist reputation, and condition.

A professional appraisal ensures:

Fair and equitable division of assets
Transparent documentation for both parties
Compliance with court and mediation requirements
Reduction of potential disputes or valuation challenges
Confidence in the accuracy and credibility of reported values

ARTXPRT provides independent, fact-based valuations to support settlements, minimize conflict, and maintain the integrity of the process.

What Is a Marital Dissolution Appraisal?

A marital dissolution appraisal determines the fair market value of an artwork, antique, or collection for equitable distribution in divorce proceedings.

Fair market value represents the price a willing buyer would pay to a willing seller under normal conditions—neither under compulsion, and both with reasonable knowledge of the property.

This valuation standard is accepted by courts and legal professionals for property settlements and divorce-related asset division.

Types of Property Commonly Appraised

Fine art (paintings, sculpture, prints, photography)
Antique furnishings and decorative arts
Jewelry, silver, and objects d’art
Collectibles, memorabilia, and design pieces
Vintage timepieces and luxury goods
Contemporary or mixed-media installations

ARTXPRT appraises both individual works and entire collections, ensuring complete documentation and a fair representation of total asset value.

Our Appraisal Process

Our methodology follows the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and is tailored to meet the evidentiary requirements of legal and financial proceedings.

Consultation & Scope Definition
We review your needs, determine intended use (litigation, mediation, or private settlement), and outline the appropriate valuation approach.
On-Site Examination
The appraiser inspects each item in person, noting artist, medium, dimensions, condition, provenance, and other identifying factors.
Research & Market Analysis
Using comparable sales data from galleries, auction houses, and private sales, we determine the most accurate and defensible fair market value.
Report Preparation
A detailed, USPAP-compliant report is prepared, complete with photographs, descriptions, itemized valuations, and market justification.
Delivery & Support
The final report is delivered digitally or in print, with continued availability for clarification, expert witness testimony, or updates if needed.

What Makes ARTXPRT Appraisals Court-Ready

Our reports are designed specifically for use in legal contexts and are accepted by courts, attorneys, mediators, and accountants.

Each appraisal includes:

Clearly stated purpose and intended use
Objective fair market values for all appraised items
Professional photographs and complete descriptions
Comparable market data to substantiate conclusions
Certification of USPAP compliance
Signed statement of independence and ethical conduct

ARTXPRT appraisals stand up to scrutiny in both mediation and litigation settings.

How Appraisals Support Attorneys and Clients

ARTXPRT works closely with family law attorneys, estate planners, and financial professionals to ensure appraisals are accurate, timely, and aligned with the client’s goals.

We assist with:

Equitable distribution of assets between parties
Documentation for settlement agreements
Expert witness support for court testimony
Consultations for mediation and negotiation
Reconciliation of disputed valuations

Our independence and adherence to professional standards make ARTXPRT a trusted ally in complex divorce proceedings.

Why Choose ARTXPRT for Marital Dissolution Appraisals

Established Expertise
For nearly fifty years, ARTXPRT has been a leader in art and antique valuation, trusted by collectors, attorneys, and financial professionals alike.

Independent and Unbiased
We never buy, sell, or broker art. This ensures that every valuation we provide is impartial, objective, and free from any conflict of interest.

Court-Recognized Reports
Our appraisals comply with USPAP and are regularly accepted in family law and civil court cases across California.

Comprehensive Documentation
Each report provides full transparency, clear explanations, and verifiable market data for every appraised item.

Confidentiality Guaranteed
Divorce proceedings require discretion. ARTXPRT treats every client and collection with absolute confidentiality and respect.

Common Questions About Marital Dissolution Appraisals

Why can’t we just agree on values ourselves?
Personal estimates often lack documentation or market basis, leading to disputes later. A professional appraisal provides defensible evidence and clarity for both parties.

What valuation standard is used for divorce cases?
The appropriate standard is fair market value, which reflects what a willing buyer would pay to a willing seller in the current market.

Are ARTXPRT appraisals accepted by courts?
Yes. Our reports meet USPAP standards and are widely accepted by courts, attorneys, and mediators across California.

What if my spouse disagrees with the appraisal?
Our valuations are fully documented with supporting data. If needed, ARTXPRT can provide clarification, supplemental reports, or testify as an expert witness.

How long does the process take?
Most appraisals are completed within two to four weeks, depending on the scope of the collection and scheduling for the on-site inspection.

Supporting Fair Settlements with Clarity and Expertise

When emotions run high, facts matter most. A reliable, independent appraisal allows both parties to move forward with confidence, knowing their shared assets are valued fairly and accurately.

ARTXPRT provides the expertise, neutrality, and professionalism needed to make art and antique valuation one less thing to worry about during a difficult time.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation

If you’re an attorney, mediator, or private client in need of a marital dissolution or asset division appraisal, Robert Levy of ARTXPRT offers trusted, court-ready reports that meet the highest professional standards.

Contact us today to schedule a private consultation or learn more about how our valuation services can support your case.