PLEASE NOTE: To protect your safety in response to the threats of COVID-19, we are offering our clients the ability to meet us via telephone or through video conferencing. Please call our office to discuss your options.

How do you know if your spouse is hiding assets in your divorce?

On Behalf of | Feb 5, 2021 | Divorce |

As you probably know by now, divorce can bring out a spouse’s worst behavior. When emotions take control over decision-making, people often begin behaving in ways that are unlike them. Hiding assets, for example, is one of the most common negative behaviors associated with divorce.

When people enter divorce proceedings, they usually never expect that issues involving hidden marital assets will arise. Unfortunately, many Des Moines residents have learned the hard way that hidden assets are a common issue in Iowa divorces.

Signs that a spouse is hiding marital assets

Without at least some evidence hinting at this immoral and illegal activity, most will complete their divorce without ever knowing the truth. However, there are some signs to look for that indicate your spouse is hiding assets:

  • Your spouse tries to open new bank accounts in secret.
  • Funds begin to disappear from your joint financial accounts.
  • Your spouse suddenly becomes secretive about finances.
  • Computer records revolving around financial accounts disappear.
  • Your spouse complains about money while making extravagant purchases.
  • He or she suddenly begins “gifting” or “loaning” money to friends.
  • Your spouse claims that his or her income has experienced a sudden decrease.

If you remain attentive to your shared accounts and vigilant in looking for discrepancies, you may spot your spouse’s unlawful activities. In turn, you can have your divorce lawyer investigate the matter thoroughly to find proof.

If your legal counsel finds evidence of hidden assets, you can present it to the judge, who will make sure you get your fair share of marital property. In some situations, the court may even decide to penalize your spouse for his or her activities.

FindLaw Network