When going through a divorce, you will have decisions to make, meetings to attend, papers to sign and so on. However, while doing this, it’s important to pay attention to the steps your soon-to-be ex-spouse is taking. This does not mean keeping tabs on their life but on things that affect the case, such as assets.
Florida is an equitable distribution state – marital property is divided equitably, not necessarily equally. Thus, if your spouse hides assets, you may be disadvantaged.
Here are four signs your spouse may be doing this:
Missing assets
You and your spouse should make a list of your marital assets. You can identify missing assets by checking their list since they will be in yours. Your spouse may have genuinely forgotten to include one, or they may be trying to prevent them from being subject to property division.
Unusual withdrawals
If your spouse didn’t withdraw cash as much during your marriage, but upon reviewing bank statements, you notice unusual withdrawals and can’t tell what the cash was used for, they may be hiding that money. They may put the cash in an undisclosed bank account or a safe deposit box.
Expensive gift
You should be alarmed if your spouse is suddenly giving people expensive gifts. The chances are they may take back the “gift” and sell it after the divorce is finalized.
Giving loans
Your spouse may give a loved one the money they withdraw as a “loan.” While this may seem like they are helping them, they may take back the money after the divorce.
If you believe your spouse is hiding assets, you should get more information to make the right moves.