5 Steps to Take If You Suspect Your Ex Is Hiding Assets

Divorce is a challenging process, emotionally and financially. One of the most critical moments that can arise during your divorce is when you suspect that your ex-partner is concealing assets to skew the divorce settlement in their favor. Ensuring a fair divorce settlement requires both spouses to be open and honest about the state of their finances and holdings as individuals and as a couple. When one spouse conceals assets and fails to reveal the full state of their financial situation, it can lead to the other spouse receiving a smaller divorce settlement than they deserve. If you believe your ex is hiding assets, there are steps you can take to hold them accountable.

What Steps Can People Take to Hold Their Ex-Spouses Accountable If They Suspect They’re Hiding Assets?

Identifying hidden assets is crucial for a fair divorce settlement. It ensures that all marital resources are acknowledged and appropriately divided, safeguarding your financial future post-divorce. The process can be daunting, but with diligence and the right approach, you can uncover discrepancies and claim what’s duly yours.

Step 1: Gather Financial Documentation

The first step involves compiling comprehensive financial records. Start with the basics:

• Tax Returns: Your tax returns from the last five years can highlight inconsistencies in reported income versus lifestyle.
• Bank Statements and Credit Card Statements: Look for unusual transactions, transfers, or purchases that could indicate concealed assets.
• Investment Portfolios: Review any investments held jointly or individually for signs of manipulation or hidden accounts.

Step 2: Conduct Personal Investigation

Observing changes in behavioral patterns can provide clues. Perhaps your ex has suddenly become secretive about financial matters or makes large purchases that don’t align with their reported income. Note these observations as they can be crucial evidence when investigating further.

Step 3: Engage a Professional

Uncovering hidden assets often requires expertise beyond the layperson’s scope. Hiring a forensic accountant or an attorney specializing in financial investigations can be a game-changer. These professionals employ advanced methods to trace and validate financial irregularities, providing credible evidence for your case.

Step 4: Consider Legal Options

Armed with evidence, hire an experienced family law attorney and explore your legal alternatives. Your attorney can:

• File a Motion for Discovery: This compels your ex to disclose financial information and records.
• Request a Vocational Assessment: If you suspect underreporting of income, a vocational expert can estimate the true earning capacity of your ex.

Step 5: Protect Yourself Financially

While navigating this process, it's critical to secure your own financial interests. Open personal bank accounts, establish your own credit, and maintain meticulous records of all matrimonial assets. Staying proactive about your financial independence and security during the divorce is paramount.

Remember, thoroughness and perseverance are your best allies throughout this process.

Think Your Ex Is Hiding Assets? Schedule a Consultation with Our Harrisburg Family Law Attorneys Today!

At Scaringi Law, our practical experience and proven track record are two of the main reasons our clients can count on us to get the job done. Even though many family law matters get resolved before reaching court, our readiness to bring your case before a judge gives you a significant advantage in negotiations and mediation. In addition, we never suggest unnecessary compromises just to avoid a court hearing or to reach a settlement agreement.

To learn more about Scaringi Law, read our clients’ testimonials.

For more information about what to do if you suspect your ex is hiding assets, give us a call at (717) 775-7195 or contact us online today to set up a consultation with our Pennsylvania family law attorneys.