How the Manipulation of Assets Affects Your Divorce

Common ploys of bitter spouses include attempts to hide assets or income. Left undiscovered, these behaviors can result in unfair divisions of property during the final stages of a divorce. It is an unfortunate reality that many husbands deny their spouses financial transparency. While most married individuals have access to joint accounts for day-to-day expenses, many are unaware of their spouse’s exact income, the presence of investments, or size of retirement accounts. 

“Starving the Spouse”

Those with substantial control over marital finances may attempt to leverage their positions to gain favorable settlements.  While these individuals can often afford to retain counsel immediately, they suspect that withholding assets will prevent their significant others from acquiring adequate representation. While daunting, it is essential to act assertively and demand full knowledge of a community estate prior to and throughout a suit. Courts have inherent power to order temporary support, enforce discovery requests, and ensure that the needs of each spouse are met.

Intentional Underemployment and Unemployment 

In Texas, the size of support payments are directly dependent upon obligor parents’ net income. Ultimately, the more an owing parent makes, the higher their ordered support payments will be. Individuals may try to either leave positions or decline favorable opportunities in an attempt to reduce their support obligations. Thankfully, Texas law contains remedies for victims of this tactic. If a court finds that a party is intentionally unemployed or underemployed, they may calculate support obligations on the basis of realistic potential income.  If you suspect that a spouse is hiding community assets and/or may attempt to prevent you from hiring representation, contact an experienced family law attorney to discuss corrective measures.