WE ARE AVAILABLE to meet clients and prospective clients by telephone and video conferencing, using either Zoom or Facetime. We are also available in person, whatever works best for you! We will continue to assist you in any way we can. Please do not hesitate to call our office and let us know how we can help.

Fort Myers Family Law Attorneys
Contact Us

The penalties for hiding assets during a divorce are severe

On Behalf of | Nov 5, 2019 | Uncategorized |

You and your soon-to-be ex-spouse have likely acquired significant assets during your marriage. Because Florida law requires judges to equitably distribute marital wealth, you can plan on receiving your fair share of assets. Still, you should be wary about the possibility of hidden ones. 

If you are thinking about hiding marital assets in the leadup to your divorce, you must realize how reckless doing so is. On the other hand, if you suspect that your partner may hide marital wealth, you may be able to use the deception to your advantage. Either way, you must understand that the penalties for hiding assets during a divorce are severe in Florida.   

Divorce consequences 

Until your marriage officially ends, you may think a great deal about the outcome of your divorce. Specifically, you may focus on your financial future. If your spouse hides assets, he or she may face substantial divorce consequences. That is, if a judge uncovers the ruse, the honest spouse is likely to get more marital property than he or she otherwise may have. 

Civil penalties 

Finding hidden assets can cost a considerable amount in investigative, legal and other fees. Because a truthful spouse should not have to cover these expenses, a judge may require the misleading partner to pay them. A judge may also hold whichever partner hides assets in contempt of court. 

Criminal exposure 

Finally, not disclosing assets or willfully hiding them may constitute criminal conduct. If your partner lies under oath, he or she may face prosecution for perjury. Fraud, money laundering, forgery and the commission of other crimes may also be necessary to hide assets or cover up illegal conduct.   

Undoubtedly, hiding assets before or during divorce proceedings is a huge mistake. By understanding the penalties for hiding marital wealth in Florida, you can better plan for both avoiding serious consequences and receiving what is rightfully yours.

Archives

  • The Florida Bar | Board Certified | Marital & Family Law
  • Super Lawyers
Photo of Professionals at Thompson Family Law
FindLaw Network