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You suspect your spouse hid assets during the divorce: What now?

On Behalf of | Jun 11, 2022 | blog, Divorce |

While Texas law requires you to disclose all assets, marital and separate, during divorce proceedings, there are individuals who try to hide property or money to avoid an equal distribution. They may do so through hidden accounts, overpaying taxes or other schemes.

There are even those who use cryptocurrency, already a complex subject when it comes to property division, as a way to conceal funds. If you suspect your soon-to-be-ex-spouse is among those trying to hide assets, you do have options.

Hire an investigator

Private investigators have the tools and experience to stealthily follow your soon-to-be-former partner and identify if he or she is using a separate, undisclosed bank, pawning off valuables or stashing cash with friends. They also know how to trace transactions such as credit card ones to see if he or she is purposefully buying expensive items for liquidation after divorce.

Consult a forensic accountant

Forensic accountants have the skills and tools needed for tracing financial transactions and identifying unusual activity. They know how to go through financial documents to search for signs of hidden assets. They may also help with properly valuing assets.

Request documents

Your legal counsel has the option of asking your soon-to-be-ex-spouse to produce papers. This includes tax documents, statements, loan papers and other financial documents.

If you fail to discover hidden assets before the completion of divorce proceedings, you may file a motion in court for the reopening of your case. However, this does not guarantee anything. If you suspect the existence of hidden assets, you may also inform the court about your suspicions. This may help you receive your fair share of assets in the divorce.

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