If you think your spouse is hiding assets, listen to your gut and do something about it.
As a divorce attorney and psychologically trained mediator with more than 35 years of experience, I advise couples getting married to pay attention to the family finances. At many of my seminars, I advise that both parties to know about their family income, assets, taxes, real estate, etc.
During my free one-hour consultations it is not unusual for me to hear, “I think my spouse is hiding assets. I have no idea what assets we have, or where they are. What do I do? I want a divorce but I’m afraid I won’t get what I am financially entitled to!”
I encourage spouses not to be passive. It could turn out you are married to someone who is controlling and wants to keep you financially in the dark. I always advise both parties to take an active role and be an equal partner in all aspects of their marriage. It is your right as an equal partner to participate in making financial decisions, paying the bills and maintaining financial records. Keeping your finger on the pulse of your finances will also put you in a much better position if your marriage should unfortunately end in divorce.
If you are considering divorce, it is important to prepare yourself and it is in your best interest to know as much as possible about your finances.
From my legal/psychological training I will share with you below some of the signs assets are being hidden:
- Your spouse is secretive about money.
- Your spouse demands and maintains control over money.
- Financial statements that once came to the home disappear or are sent to the office.
- New financial accounts have been opened without explanation.
- Your spouse has opened a post office box.
- There have been some new “flashy” purchases (cars, watches, boats).
- You are asked to blindly sign documents without reading them first.
- Your spouse’s behavior has changed in how financial documents are filed or stored.
What Type of Assets Can Be hidden?
- Money (cash)
- Stocks and stock options
- Bonuses
- Pensions
- Real estate
- Inheritances
- Trusts
- Cars, boats, antiques (housed by family and friends)
How Can Assets Be Hidden?
- Make gifts to family and friends (with the understanding they will be returned)
- Multiple Internet banking accounts—no statements mailed to the home
- Use a post office box as mailing address
- Safety deposit box at bank
- Create corporations or business partnerships
- Asking employers to delay bonuses
- Foreign accounts
- Overpaying the IRS
- Coin, art, gun, jewelry, memorabilia collections
How Can You Track Down “Hidden Assets?”
Hire a divorce attorney, private investigator and/or a forensic accountant. Process of discovery in litigation; send out subpoenas; Trained forensic specialists will be able to do a “ lifestyle analysis” looking at many factors to determine if income is accurate by reviewing tax returns, W2s, K-1s (partnership returns) investigating deferred salary, commissions and bonuses.
Surround yourself with a powerful divorce team to get the expertise and support needed to track down what you are financially entitled to in your divorce!
With over 35 years of experience as a divorce attorney and psychologically and financially trained mediator, I can tell you, if you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, it’s probably true!
If you are concerned and fear your spouse is hiding money, and divorce may be where you are headed, call me. I can guide you on what to look for, how to investigate, and most importantly, how to get financially prepared.
It is wise to know where all the assets are so you can get the best financial outcome in your divorce. Let us help you.
Having worked for Sullivan & Cromwell, which has many sophisticated business clients, I am well versed in analyzing complex financial issues.
My team of litigators and forensic experts are some of the very best! Call us today so we can help you find your assets! 212.734.1551
Our FREE 1 HOUR CONSULTATIONS are very informative and still conveniently available virtually.
I look forward to helping you through your divorce and securing the best possible settlement for you and your family. We will find those hidden assets. Call us now!
Warm regards,
Lois
Call New York Divorce Attorney Lois Brenner Now to schedule your FREE consultation!
212.734.1551
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