Who Gets the Private Country and Golf Club Membership in a Divorce?

A private club membership is more than just a membership—it is a significant part of a couple’s lifestyle and personal identity. Whether it is a golf course, tennis club, or social club, these memberships often have a substantial financial investment and strong social connections. For many people going through a divorce, determining who retains the membership is an important decision.

Reviewing Membership Terms

The first step in determining ownership of a club membership is to review the membership agreement. Many clubs have specific rules about how memberships are to be handled in the event of a divorce.

• Some clubs designate the membership to the primary member and do not allow a non-primary member to maintain or transfer the membership.
• Others may allow the non-primary spouse to apply for their own membership, but only with approval from the club and the primary member’s consent.
• In some cases, clubs may not permit both former spouses to remain as members at the same time.

Understanding the club’s policies will help in negotiations during the divorce process.

Considering the Importance of Membership

If you have a club membership, it is worth spending time considering how important it is to you to maintain it. If you want to remain a member of the club, make sure your divorce attorney understands that it is a priority for you. It will also be important to consider whether you can afford membership obligations on your own.

Is the Membership Marital Property?

Beyond determining who is eligible to retain the membership, it is also important to consider its financial value. If initial membership fees and ongoing monthly dues were paid with marital funds, the membership itself may be considered marital property under New York law.

If one spouse wishes to keep the membership, they may need to compensate the other spouse for their 50% share of the financial investment. This could involve a direct payment or an adjustment in the overall division of marital assets.

Addressing Future Use and Club Rules

If both spouses wish to maintain membership to the club, it is important to discuss how future interactions will be managed. Some key considerations include:

• If and when new partners can be brought to the club.
• How costs related to the children’s use of the club will be shared.

Including these details in the divorce agreement will prevent misunderstandings and conflicts later on.

Protecting Your Interests

For many people, private country and golf club memberships are more than just a luxury—they are an important part of their lifestyle, carrying both financial and emotional value. If you are going through a divorce and need help deciding how to divide the membership, it’s important that you have the right legal support.

At Vacca Family Law Group, we understand how important it is to protect your interests and lifestyle during this time. Our team is here to offer guidance and find solutions that works for you. Contact us today for a free introductory call.

Vacca Family Law Group is located at One Grand Central Place, 60 E. 42nd St., Suite 700, New York, NY 10165