How can I protect myself during a divorce?

By Bob Matteucci
Attorney

When you’re a business owner, going through a divorce can feel like a shakedown. Your money, your time, your livelihood, everything seems to be threatened. But this isn’t the kind of problem you solve by slipping someone an envelope of cash or calling in a favor. 

Real protection comes from knowing the rules, playing smart, and surrounding yourself with the right people. Here are five ways to protect yourself—legally, financially, and emotionally—during a New Mexico divorce. 

1. You Know a Guy

You might not be Don Corleone, but Attorney Bob Matteucci is ready to be your consigliere. As a former family business owner and divorcee, he is intimately familiar with the situation you are in. As an experienced family law attorney, he is ready to guide you through it. 

2. Pick the Right Process. Not Every Divorce Has to Be a Turf War.

Litigation is messy, expensive, and invites the public into your private affairs. That’s why most couples in the Albuquerque area choose to negotiate their divorce agreement behind closed doors. And contrary to what you may believe, sitting on opposites of a big conference table while your attorneys duke it out is not the only way to negotiate. Mediation and collaborative divorce are great choices for business owners who want a less acrimonious process that focuses on your end goals instead of the divorce process itself. 

3. Know What’s “Ours” and What’s “Mine”

New Mexico’s community property laws mean anything earned, acquired, or that increases in value during the marriage is up for grabs—even the family business. But not everything is shared. Pre-marital assets, inheritances, and gifts may be yours alone if you can prove they remained your separate property during the marriage. Attorney Bob Matteucci is ready to help you figure out what assets belong only to you, and find a way to divide the value of your marital assets, without crippling your business or destroying your family’s financial foundation. 

4. Get Protection If You Need It

If your soon-to-be ex is making threats, harassing you, or creating a dangerous environment, don’t wait for things to escalate. In New Mexico, you can request an order of protection through the courts. It’s like calling in backup when things get out of hand. Commonly called restraining orders, these court orders can limit contact, protect your kids, and even give you temporary possession of the home or business assets. Safety comes first. Always.

5. It is personal. And it is business. 

Divorce is not something you need to handle on your own. While your attorney can help you shoulder the legal burden, you should not be afraid to call for additional support. Make time to meet up with a therapist, coach, or mentor. Surround yourself with people who ground you. Your emotional stability isn’t just important—it’s strategic. The clearer your head, the better your decisions. And in divorce, good decisions are everything.

Serving Families with Dignity & Compassion

You don’t have to go to the mattresses to make it out of the New Mexico divorce courts alive. With the right support, strategy, and mindset, you can protect your business, your well-being, and your future. At Matteucci Family Law, we help business owners across New Mexico move forward without losing what matters most. If you’re ready to take control, we’ve got your back. Please contact Matteucci Family Law today to discuss your case. 

About the Author
Bob Matteucci is a board certified family law specialist, with a statewide practice in the area of divorce and family law.