Getting A Divorce In Fort Lauderdale And Suspect Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets? Here’s What You Need To Know

Going through a divorce in Broward County can bring out the best and worst in people. While most couples strive for a fair and honest division of property, some spouses try to manipulate the process by hiding assets.

If you are concerned that your spouse may be concealing income or property, it’s important to take swift action. Florida law requires full financial disclosure in divorce proceedings, and there are serious consequences for hiding assets. Our Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney explains what you need to know if facing this difficult situation.

Hidden Assets And How They Are Treated In Broward County Divorce Cases

Under the Florida Statutes, equitable division of marital property and assets is required in Fort Lauderdale divorce cases. For this system to work, both parties must provide a complete and accurate accounting of their finances. Hiding assets not only violates this rule but undermines the entire legal process. Common examples of hidden assets in Broward County divorce cases include:

• Undisclosed bank or investment accounts;
• Cash kept off the books in a business;
• Real estate titled in another person’s name;
• Delayed bonuses, raises, or contracts;
• Overpaying debts or taxes to receive future refunds.

When a spouse hides assets, the court has the authority to impose serious consequences. Judges may award a larger share of the marital property to the innocent spouse or issue financial sanctions. In more egregious cases, hiding assets may even result in criminal charges. Florida courts view nondisclosure as a violation of both legal duty and good faith, and they don’t take it lightly.

What To Do If You Suspect Hidden Assets In Your Fort Lauderdale Divorce

If you believe your spouse is being dishonest about their finances, there are legal steps you can take to protect your interests:

• Look for red flags, such as missing property, unusual withdrawals, changed account passwords, or sudden changes in spending habits.
• Request formal discovery, which allows your attorney to demand documents, submit written questions (interrogatories), and depose your spouse under oath.
• Subpoena banks, mortgage companies, and even employers to produce records.
• Consider hiring a forensic accountant, who specializes in tracking down hidden income, investments, and asset transfers.

The law is on your side, but only if you speak up and present evidence. Having an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney on your side can make the difference between an unfair settlement and one that truly protects your future.

To Uncover Hidden Assets, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney

At The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, we know how important it is to get a fair and honest outcome when filing for divorce in Fort Lauderdale. If you suspect that your spouse could be hiding property and assets, don’t try to handle it alone.

With extensive experience handling complex property division cases throughout Broward County, our Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney can protect your rights and uncover the truth. Call or contact our office online today to schedule a confidential consultation.

Sources:

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

supremecourt.flcourts.gov/content/download/345287/file/01-2344_rule.pdf