Divorce can be a difficult and emotional time for anyone, and it can become
even more challenging when you suspect your spouse is hiding assets.
As a divorce attorney/mediator, I receive calls all the time from spouses
reporting their partner is hiding assets.
If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to take action
and seek help from professionals who can assist you in tracking down any
hidden assets.
Based upon my psychological training and extensive divorce and family law
experience, spouses who hide assets are usually motivated by a desire
to keep those assets for themselves rather than sharing them with their
partner as part of a divorce settlement.
But what kind of spouse is most likely to engage in this behavior?
Let’s explore some of the common characteristics of spouses who may
be more likely to hide assets during a divorce.
A History of Financial Deception
If your spouse has a history of financial deception, such as lying about
their income or hiding debts, they may be more likely to hide assets during
a divorce. This type of behavior often stems from a deep-seated sense
of entitlement and a belief that they are entitled to keep their assets,
regardless of the impact on their partner.
A High-Conflict Personality
High-conflict personalities are individuals who are prone to intense emotional
reactions, including anger, defensiveness, and aggression. Spouses with
high-conflict personalities may be more likely to hide assets during a
divorce as a way of exerting control over their partner or to "get
back" at them for perceived wrongs.
Highly Competitive
Spouses who are highly competitive may be more likely to hide assets during
a divorce as a way of "winning" the divorce settlement. These
individuals may see the divorce as a competition rather than a process
of negotiation and may be more focused on getting the upper hand than
on achieving a fair and equitable settlement.
Involved in a High-Stakes Financial Situation
Spouses who are involved in high-stakes financial situations, such as owning
a business or investing in real estate, may be more likely to hide assets
during a divorce. These individuals may see the divorce as a threat to
their financial stability and may be willing to take drastic measures
to protect their assets.
History of Substance Abuse
Substance abuse can often lead to poor decision-making and impulsive behavior.
Spouses who have a history of substance abuse may be more likely to hide
assets during a divorce as a way of avoiding the consequences of their
addiction or to fund their habit.
History of Abusing Their Partner
Spouses who have a history of abusing their partner may be more likely
to hide assets during a divorce as a way of continuing to exert control
over their partner. These individuals may be more focused on maintaining
their power and control than on achieving a fair and equitable settlement.
If you suspect that your spouse is hiding assets, it's important to
seek the advice of a highly skilled divorce attorney/mediator who can
help you navigate the divorce process and protect your rights.
When a spouse comes to me for help, I, along with my team of experts help
a spouse do the following to get to the best possible results financially
in the divorce process.
1. Hire a Private Investigator
One of the most effective ways to track down hidden assets is to hire a
private investigator. These professionals are skilled in investigating
financial records and can often uncover hidden assets that you may not
be able to find on your own. They can also conduct surveillance on your
spouse to see if they are hiding any physical assets, such as expensive
cars or jewelry.
We have some of the best and highly sophisticated investigators on our team!
2. Look for Discrepancies in Financial Records
If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, it's important to carefully
review all financial records, including bank statements, tax returns,
and credit card statements. Look for any discrepancies, such as large
withdrawals or deposits that you can't account for or payments to
unknown creditors.
3. Consult With a Forensic Accountant
Another valuable resource in tracking down hidden assets is a forensic
accountant. These professionals specialize in analyzing financial records
and can help you identify any irregularities that may indicate your spouse
is hiding assets. They can also provide expert testimony in court if necessary.
4. Check Your Spouse's Social Media Accounts
Believe it or not, social media can sometimes provide clues to hidden assets.
Check your spouse's social media accounts for any posts or photos
that suggest they have assets they haven't disclosed, such as expensive
vacation homes or purchases.
5. Request Financial Disclosure
In most divorce cases, both parties are required to disclose all of their
financial assets and liabilities. If you suspect your spouse is hiding
assets, you can request that they provide a full financial disclosure.
If they refuse, you may be able to seek legal action to force them to disclose.
6. Consider Freezing Joint Accounts
If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, you may want to consider freezing
any joint accounts or take out half of the money to prevent them from
moving or hiding money. This can be done with the help of an attorney
or through a court order.
Remember to stay vigilant and take action as soon as you suspect something is amiss!
With more than 35 years of experience as a divorce attorney and psychologically
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 important, 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.
Me, my litigation partners, and my team of forensic experts are highly
skilled and we will get you the best results. Call us today so we can
help you find your assets! 212.734.1551
Our
FREE 1-HOUR CONSULTATIONS are veryinformative and conveniently AND STILL AVAILABLE virtually!
I look forward to speaking with you.
Warm regards,
Lois
Call New York Divorce Attorney Lois Brenner now so she can help you track
down your assets. Schedule your FREE consultation right now!
Call 212.734.1551.
A few openings are still available for this week.