Divorce can be a challenging and emotionally charged process, especially when it comes to dividing assets. Unfortunately, some individuals may attempt to hide assets to avoid fair distribution. In Indiana, where equitable distribution laws apply, uncovering these hidden assets is crucial for ensuring a just settlement. This blog will address how private investigators can play a vital role in finding hidden assets.
Indiana law requires both parties in a divorce to provide full disclosure of their assets and debts. However, some individuals may try to conceal assets through various means, such as: transferring money to friends or family members; underreporting income; overpaying taxes to receive a refund after the divorce; creating fake debts; and hiding cash or valuable items. Failing to disclose assets can have serious legal consequences, including contempt of court charges and potential criminal penalties.
Private investigators (PIs) have the skills, experience, and resources to uncover hidden assets that might otherwise go unnoticed. Some ways private investigators can assist are financial record analysis, asset searches, surveillance, digital forensics, interviewing witnesses, and lifestyle analysis. PIs can scrutinize bank statements, tax returns, and other financial documents to identify discrepancies or suspicious transactions. Investigators can conduct thorough searches for properties, vehicles, businesses, and other assets that may not have been disclosed. If there is suspicion of a spouse hiding cash or valuable items, PIs can conduct surveillance to gather evidence of undisclosed assets or income. In today’s digital age, PIs can examine computers, smartphones, and other devices for evidence of hidden accounts or assets. Investigators may speak with friends, family members, or business associates who might have knowledge of hidden assets. By examining a spouse’s spending habits and lifestyle, PIs can identify discrepancies between reported income and actual expenditures.
In Indiana, the discovery of hidden assets can significantly impact divorce proceedings. The court may award a larger portion of the marital assets to the wronged spouse. The spouse who hid assets may be required to pay the other spouse’s legal and investigative fees. In severe cases, the court may impose penalties or sanctions on the offending spouse. When selecting a PI for asset discovery there are various things to consider. Ensure the investigator is licensed in Indiana. Look for experience specifically in divorce and asset investigation cases. Check for memberships in professional organizations for private investigations. Verify that they use legal and ethical methods to obtain information.
While hiring a private investigator adds to the cost of the divorce proceedings, the potential benefits of uncovering hidden assets often outweigh the expense. By ensuring all assets are properly disclosed, you can work towards a fair and equitable distribution in your Indiana divorce case. Remember, the goal is not just to “win” but to achieve a just and lawful resolution that allows both parties to move forward with their lives. If you suspect your spouse may be hiding assets, consult with your divorce attorney about the possibility of engaging a qualified private investigator. The attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C. have experience uncovering hidden assets during divorce proceedings in Indiana. We are here to help you through this process. This blog was written by attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C., and this blog is not intended to provide specific legal advice or solicitation of services as this is an advertisement.
