Dividing property during a divorce can be difficult, especially when one spouse attempts to hide money, property or other financial interests. This can be a serious concern in high-asset divorces, but hidden assets can occur in any situation where there is a lack of trust or transparency.
If you suspect that your spouse is not being honest about finances, there are steps you can take to uncover the truth. Identifying all marital property is important for achieving a fair and lawful outcome.
How to identify hidden assets during divorce
A spouse trying to conceal wealth or property may use more than one method. The following strategies can help you detect and document hidden assets:
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Review voluntary disclosures carefully: In the early stages of divorce, each party usually submits an initial financial disclosure. Review these documents for inconsistencies or omissions such as unlisted accounts, undervalued property or missing income sources.
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Request documents through formal discovery: You have the right to demand financial records and account details through legal tools such as interrogatories and requests for production. These can include tax returns, account statements, real estate documents and retirement accounts.
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Conduct a deposition: During a sworn deposition, your spouse must answer questions truthfully under oath. This can be an opportunity to ask about past transactions, hidden investments or off-the-books income. Answers given during depositions can be used as evidence later.
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Investigate suspicious activity independently: Sometimes clues appear in social media posts, emails or lifestyle changes that do not match a reported income level. Watch for expensive purchases, travel, gifts or claims about side jobs and business deals that have not been disclosed.
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Hire a professional when necessary: If records are difficult to obtain or your spouse is skilled at concealing information, a forensic accountant or private investigator may be able to uncover valuable information about hidden wealth or property.
Uncovering hidden assets can be essential for reaching a fair property division in your divorce. Seeking legal guidance is important, as it can help you use the legal system to protect your financial interests and secure what you are entitled to.
