You may have concerns that your spouse is concealing assets, squandering money or incurring debts. Unfortunately, it is common for spouses to hide assets or waste funds during a divorce.
You may not have access to all the accounts, investments or spending records of your partner. However, there are several methods to find this information.
First steps for finding hidden assets
The process of looking for financial data depends on your unique situation. Various factors affect your search, including your knowledge of household and business finances. Here are some ways you can find pertinent details.
Documentation
You can begin by looking into information you have at your fingertips. Start by requesting bank statements and taking photos of documents detailing marital assets. Relevant paperwork may include:
- Bank account or money market statements
- Tax returns
- Property titles or deeds
- Stock certificates
- Investment accounts
Credit Report
Someone going through a divorce may open new accounts or purchase assets secretly. Reviewing your credit report can reveal clues about new loans, bank accounts or properties acquired by your spouse.
Next steps for more complex situations
If your spouse has gone to extreme lengths to conceal assets, you likely need more in-depth professional assistance. The following methods help capture a more comprehensive picture of your marital holdings.
Discovery
A formal discovery process in Indiana aids in your search by:
- Gathering information from your spouse through written questioning
- Requesting financial records
- Obtaining withheld documents through a subpoena
Forensic accountant
A forensic accountant tracks funds, calculates historical income, values property claims and assesses outgoing costs to provide a complete picture of your spouse’s financial worth.
Hiding assets during your divorce is illegal, and you have a right to know the entirety of your marital property. Take the time to investigate your finances thoroughly before finalizing your settlement.