Financial Warning Signs To Watch Out For Before Filing For Divorce In Fort Lauderdale

Ending a marriage may be one of the most important and difficult things you will ever do. If filing for a divorce in Fort Lauderdale is likely in your future, there are steps you should take now that help protect your rights in a settlement while making the process a little easier.

One of your first actions should be to look closely at your financial situation. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney explains financial red flags to watch out for and what to do now to prepare and protect yourself.

Financial Red Flags That Could Jeopardize Your Rights In A Fort Lauderdale Divorce

If you are thinking of getting a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, you need to be aware of your rights regarding financial matters. Under the Florida Statutes, anything purchased, earned, or acquired during your marriage is subject to equitable division in a Broward County divorce, meaning you are entitled to your fair share.

Getting the maximum amount in a divorce settlement makes a major difference in your ability to recover financially from a divorce. However, your spouse may attempt to hide assets to avoid having them subjected to equitable division. Warning signs that could indicate an attempt to conceal assets or manipulate the equitable division process include:

• Large unexplained withdrawals or unusual credit card charges;
• Missing financial records, tax returns, or account statements;
• Sudden interest in cryptocurrency or opening new accounts;
• Decrease in your spouse’s reported income or refusal to share financial details.

Being proactive in gathering financial records now can protect your interests later. You have a legal right to full disclosure during divorce, but it helps to start collecting documents before things become contentious.

What To Do If You Spot Financial Red Flags Prior To Filing For Divorce In Fort Lauderdale

All of the above are major red flags. They indicate that your spouse may be trying to hide assets or otherwise influence the outcome of property division, alimony, and other divorce-related matters. Rather than panic, stay calm while taking the following actions to protect your rights and your best interests in a divorce settlement:

• Track balances in your savings, checking, investment, and 401k or other financial accounts;
• Calculate current outstanding debts and close joint accounts;
• Get copies of bank statements, property titles, tax returns, and other essential documents;
• Get legal help to determine if filing a divorce petition through the Broward County Family Court is the best option, which helps prevent your spouse from hiding assets or otherwise trying to deprive you of what you are legally entitled to.

To Protect Your Rights Regarding Marital Property and Assets, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney Today.

If you are concerned about how getting a divorce in Fort Lauderdale could impact your financial security or if you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, do not delay. Sandra Bonfiglio provides the trusted legal guidance and experienced representation necessary to protect your rights. Call or contact our office online today to request a consultation with our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.075.html

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family