(Last Updated On: February 28, 2023)Last Updated on: 28th February 2023, 10:44 am
Divorce can be a heated and emotionally charged process, and one of the most contentious issues at stake is the division of marital property and financial assets. Unfortunately, some spouses may attempt to deprive their partner of their fair share of these assets, either out of spite or a belief that they have a stronger claim to them. But the most sinister tactic of all is when one spouse attempts to conceal bank accounts or assets in order to evade the legal process of equitable distribution.
In California, the law requires that a judge preside over the division of marital assets and ensure that it is done in an equitable manner. But in order to make a fair decision, the judge must have a complete and accurate inventory of all assets. If one spouse has hidden assets, the judge is unable to make a just decision, and that spouse may be held in contempt of court. The judge may also impose sanctions, such as requiring the spouse who hid assets to pay the other’s legal fees, or even awarding higher alimony payments. In some cases, criminal charges of fraud may even be brought against the spouse who hid assets.
Hiding assets during a divorce is not only illegal, but it is also morally wrong and undermines the integrity of the legal system. It’s important for all parties to be transparent and honest about their assets in order for the judge to make a fair and just decision.
As the delicate and emotionally charged process of divorce unfolds, the division of assets can become a contentious issue. In California, both parties are legally required to reveal all of their assets, both marital and separate, to the court, in order to ensure a fair distribution of the marital estate. However, in some cases, one party may attempt to conceal certain assets in order to gain an unfair advantage in the proceedings.
Whether it’s through subtle omission or more devious means, hiding assets can have serious consequences. Marital assets, acquired during the marriage and before separation, are the only assets that can be divided by the court. However, if assets are hidden, the court may not have a full understanding of the couple’s financial situation, which can negatively impact decisions about alimony and child support.
In an amicable divorce, the couple may work together with their attorneys and perhaps a mediator to negotiate a fair division of assets. In a contested divorce, a judge may be called upon to decide issues of identification, classification, valuation, and distribution of assets.
But when one party attempts to conceal assets, it can undermine the integrity of the legal process and lead to an unfair outcome. This is why it is crucial for both parties to be forthcoming and transparent when it comes to disclosing their assets during a divorce.
Are you suspecting that your spouse is hiding assets from you? Let us help uncover the truth. Our skilled
divorce attorneys can file motions to uncover any property and financial holdings that may have been concealed. We’ll use powerful tools like document and inspection demands to force your spouse to produce specific documents, such as bank and broker account records, tax returns, financial statements, and loan documents, and allow you to inspect the property. We can also use written questions and depositions to gather information under oath and with the penalty of perjury if answers are knowingly false. And when necessary, we’ll even bring in a forensic accountant to examine financial records and testify as an expert witness. Don’t let your spouse get away with hiding assets. Trust us to uncover the truth and ensure a fair division of property.
Lawyers Can Help Find Hidden Assets
As the painful process of divorce unfolds, it’s not uncommon for one spouse to attempt to conceal assets in order to keep them from being divided with their soon-to-be ex. But with the powerful legal tools of “discovery,” divorcing spouses in every state have the means to uncover hidden income and assets.
To begin dividing assets, it’s crucial to create a comprehensive financial snapshot of all assets owned by each spouse. These assets can be classified as “marital” (property acquired during the marriage), “separate” (property acquired before the marriage, after separation, or by gift or inheritance), or “comingled” (property mixed together, such as in a bank account or retirement fund). These are general rules, but the laws of your specific state will dictate how property is characterized.
Even if you don’t have ownership rights in your spouse’s separate property, it’s essential to account for it all as a court may consider the value of both spouses’ separate property when deciding how to divide marital property and debts.
For those who were not involved in tracking finances during their marriage, the process of finding assets can be especially difficult. As the “out-spouse,” your first step should be to ask your spouse for copies of all financial records. If your spouse is uncooperative, you can work together to gather information online or send joint requests to third parties. However, if you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, it’s wise to seek the help of an attorney with experience in asset search and investigation.