Hiding financial assets or property before or during a divorce… This tactic could be used by you or your spouse to make certain things disappear before the divorce proceedings ever begin. But it is definitely not recommended as the consequences could be disastrous for your case (Judges don’t like it when you hide stuff from them!!) It could possibly be as simple as gifting money to “friends” or relatives with the promise that the money will be returned after the smoke has cleared and divorce case is long over. In a similar move, they could sell off some of the more expensive marital items for way less than its actual value, such as selling a boat, sports car or some expensive jewelry for $10. They will do this with the intention of buying back the property at a later date. They have to put a lot of trust in someone to do this because the “friend” can always refuse and walk away from their “friendship” with a $10 ski boat.

Always be on the look out for things that may seem odd. If something of this sort does occur it could happen way before the idea of an official end to the marriage is even a thought in your mind. The easiest and most effective way to protect this from happening is to keep evidence of all your financial assets and titles to any expendable property in a safe place where your significant other will not be able to get a hold of it to make it disappear. This can include a secure place at work, a “new” safety deposit box, or with some relative that you would trust your life with.

If you suspect that something is missing and decide that is worth fighting for, be sure to talk to a divorce attorney. He or she should know what evidence that you need to gather up, how difficult it will be to prove your case, and whether or not you will need the assistance of an expert in the matter, such as a forensic accountant.