What kind of valuation is used in court?

A practical valuation answer

For court or dispute purposes, the valuation method has to match the legal issue, the valuation date, and the evidence available. The conclusion is only as strong as the support behind the assumptions, calculations, and source documents.

For this type of engagement, the analysis usually focuses on the legal purpose of the report, source documents and fact pattern, and methods that can be explained and defended. That is how the answer moves from a generic opinion to a defensible valuation conclusion that fits the facts.

Core valuation checklist

• Confirm the valuation purpose, date, and standard of value before starting.
• Collect the records that matter most: financial statements, tax returns, ownership documents, contracts, and any relevant legal or tax materials.
• Analyze the legal purpose of the report, source documents and fact pattern, and methods that can be explained and defended.
• Document assumptions clearly so the conclusion can be explained to buyers, advisors, counterparties, or the court if needed.