Florida’s divorce courts generally divide marital assets fairly between two spouses. As noted by SmartAsset.com, you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse will need to sign a financial affidavit.
The process may include disclosing personal details about your financial affairs. Both spouses may submit information about their income, expenses and debts. The court could ask for your or your spouse’s tax returns, credit card statements and bank account records.
Uncovering additional or hidden information
You may take steps to uncover additional information if you believe your spouse has not provided a complete financial affidavit. The American Bar Association explains that the discovery process may include hiring a forensic accountant or private investigator.
An experienced accountant could review databases to find hidden business interests, investments or assets. Financial accounts located in another country may require the skills of a private investigator to reveal the trails of money. Individuals engaging in fraudulent transfers or personal loans designed to leave funds out of a divorce settlement may face serious legal issues.
Reviewing social media accounts to discover hidden assets
Images and information posted on social media accounts may contain clues to a spouse’s hidden assets. Mentions of real estate, luxury vehicles or “cryptocurrency” sometimes indicate the possibility of undisclosed funds. As reported by CNBC, with a court order, investigators may access a spouse’s electronic devices to learn about trades involving crypto or foreign assets.
A fair divorce settlement includes dividing marital property such as investment and retirement accounts. When an individual attempts to conceal financial information, the court may use legal procedures to uncover hidden assets.
