Divorce is already challenging, but it can be even more complex when one spouse attempts to hide assets to avoid fair division. 

Common Strategies for Hiding Assets in New Jersey

Hidden assets can take many forms, and some of the most common tactics used to conceal them include:

1. Undisclosed Bank Accounts and Investments
   A spouse may open secret bank accounts or brokerage accounts under their own or a family member's name. These accounts can sometimes be uncovered through detailed financial records and bank statements.
2. Transferring Money to Friends or Family
   Transferring funds or gifting assets to trusted individuals is a common way to hide wealth temporarily. In these cases, assets are “loaned” or “gifted” with the expectation they will be returned after the divorce is finalized.
3. Delaying Income or Bonuses
   Business owners or high-level executives sometimes delay receiving bonuses or commissions, making it appear as though their income is lower.
4. Overpaying Taxes or Debt
   Some individuals overpay their taxes or debts intentionally to secure a refund after the divorce or reduce the visible value of their net worth.
5. Manipulating Business Finances
   Business owners have additional ways to doctor financial records and ledgers, such as padding expenses, understating revenue, or undervaluing the business itself to make it appear less profitable.

Signs to Watch For

If you suspect hidden assets, here are some warning signs that might indicate your spouse is concealing wealth:

●     Sudden Changes in Spending or Financial Behavior: If your spouse starts spending less or makes unusual purchases, it may signal an attempt to minimize visible assets.

●     Missing Financial Documents: Missing statements, pay stubs, tax returns, or property deeds could mean important information is being withheld.

●     Unexplained Debt: New debts or liabilities that weren't disclosed during the marriage may indicate a diversion of assets.

●     Lifestyle Discrepancies: If your spouse's lifestyle or spending habits don't match his or her claimed income, it could suggest hidden sources of money.

The Role of a Forensic Accountant

Forensic accountants are experts in identifying hidden assets and unreported income. They can help trace discrepancies and analyze financial documents to uncover any missing information. Here's how they assist in the process:

1. Tracing Income and Expenditures: Forensic accountants scrutinize income and spending patterns, looking for unaccounted-for funds or unusual transactions that may signal hidden assets.
2. Examining Business Records: If one spouse owns a business, a forensic accountant can analyze company financials to detect inflated expenses, understated income, or hidden accounts.
3. Asset Tracing and Valuation: Forensic accountants often conduct asset tracing to locate high-value items or investments that may not have been disclosed. They can also assess the true value of any shared assets to ensure equitable division.

The Role of Asset Tracing in Divorce

Asset tracing is a powerful tool for uncovering concealed financial information. By examining records and following the movement of funds, asset tracing can reveal hidden accounts, investments, or real estate holdings. Combined with forensic accounting, it provides a comprehensive approach to revealing assets that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Protecting Yourself During the Discovery Process

If you suspect hidden assets, here are steps you can take to protect your financial interests:

●     Gather Financial Records Early: Begin collecting bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, investment account statements, and other financial documents early in the divorce process.

●     Hire a Skilled Attorney: An experienced divorce attorney can guide you through the discovery process and recommend specialists, like forensic accountants, if needed.

●     Be Proactive and Persistent: Financial investigations may take time. Work with your attorney and forensic experts to pursue every lead and ensure that all assets are accounted for.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Uncovering hidden assets can be a critical step in protecting your financial future during a divorce. At Marotta Tuchman & Blazini, LLC, we're committed to helping our clients achieve a fair division of property, including uncovering any hidden assets. If you're concerned about concealed finances in your divorce, contact us today at (201) 368-7713 to schedule a consultation.

Our dedicated New Jersey divorce attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure you receive your rightful share, giving you peace of mind and a fair outcome.