How are stocks & shares valued for divorce? =============================================== Given the fluctuating nature of shares, obtaining an accurate valuation may be difficult. Value might be attributed to its cost value or its cash-in value, but there is no one straightforward approach. Determining the value of 'quoted'shares is simply a case of obtaining the current share price. Whereas for 'unquoted' shares, the company from which the shares are in can provide a valuation, or an independent forensic account may need to be instructed. The valuation of share options is more complicated. A share option is the right to purchase shares at a point in the future, typically once certain conditions have been met, such as being employed by the company for a specified period of time. To provide a valuation, a forensic accountant will likely be needed. However, the valuations provided by different experts may vary and where a broad estimate is provided, the court will be cautious in relying on a specific figure too heavily. The reliability of a valuation will affect the court's treatment of an asset, and an order will reflect the specific issues attached to its valuation. As per [*Martin v Martin* \[2018\] EWCA Civ 2866](https://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWCA/Civ/2018/2866.html), even if the court can determine a valuation, this doesn't mean that they will give equal weight to the value compared to the valuations of other assets. **Obtaining an accurate valuation of stocks and shares is difficult. Fortunately, Vardags has years of experience acting in cases involving complex assets. If you are considering or going through a divorce, and you or your spouse have significant stocks and shares, contact Vardags today for a free initial consultation with one of our expert divorce solicitors.** [BOOK FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact "BOOK FREE CONSULTATION") About Us -------- Ayesha VardagFounder & President "A DIVORCE LAWYER WIDELY REGARDED AS ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST" The Metro Vardags offer a unique approach to the law, specially tailored to the needs of HNW individuals. We offer City-quality representation for your divorce and family law needs. Our lawyers come from the very best universities and receive the very best training - they are determined, diligent, and dedicated to getting the best outcome... [read more](https://vardags.com/about-us) [BOOK FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact) Related Guides -------------- [Can I dispute a valuation?](https://vardags.com/law-guide/how-the-courts-decide-a-financial-settlement/disputing-a-valuation "Can I dispute a valuation?") [How are offshore assets valued for divorce?](https://vardags.com/law-guide/how-the-courts-decide-a-financial-settlement/valuing-offshore-assets "How are offshore assets valued for divorce?") [How are trusts and foundations valued for divorce?](https://vardags.com/law-guide/how-the-courts-decide-a-financial-settlement/valuing-trusts-and-foundations-for-divorce "How are trusts and foundations valued for divorce?") [How are unusual assets valued for divorce?](https://vardags.com/law-guide/how-the-courts-decide-a-financial-settlement/valuing-unique-assets-for-divorce "How are unusual assets valued for divorce?") [How does the court treat stocks and shares on divorce?](https://vardags.com/law-guide/how-the-courts-decide-a-financial-settlement/stocks-and-shares-on-divorce "How does the court treat stocks and shares on divorce?") The information on this website is intended as a guide and does not constitute legal advice. Vardags do not accept liability for any errors in the information on this website, nor any losses stemming from reliance upon the statements made herein. All articles and pages aim to reflect the legal position at time they were published, and may have been rendered obsolete by subsequent developments in the law. Should you require specialist advice, tailored to your situation, please see how Vardags can help you.