Dirty Divorce: Don't Fall Victim To These Rotten Divorce Tactics
Divorce is hardly ever an easy going experience that two people sail right through without flared tempers, disagreements, and someone feeling cheated. However, if your spouse is particularly filled with venom and bitter about the situation, there are a lot of ways they may try to make the whole ordeal even worse than it already is. While their dirty tricks will likely make things harder on the both of you, if you can catch on in time, you can keep yourself protected from becoming an outright victim. Here are a few dirty divorce tactics your spouse may use that you should be alert to during the divorce process.
Your spouse is the sole provider, but they move out and leave you with all the bills.
If your soon-to-be ex spouse is trying to get you to agree to certain divorce settlement components, they may try to starve you out so you have no choice but to go along with what they are asking. It is not at all uncommon for them to do this by moving out and taking all financial resources with them. If your spouse has put you in this position, do your best to move beyond the threat and avoid compromising what you believe is fair with the settlement—even if it means you have to temporarily move in with a relative or friend.
Your spouse drains the bank account and doesn't tell you.
Out of fear of having to split whatever money you hold in joint accounts, your spouse may try to completely drain joint accounts without even telling you. If they do,you could be dealing with the embarrassment if declined debits and bounced checks. If you discover this is taking place, talk to your divorce attorney to find out if there is anything that can be done to retain rights to your part of the money even though your spouse moved it.
Your spouse starts making odd purchases out of the blue just before the divorce is final.
If your spouse is expecting to pay some form of alimony or spousal support, they may try to hide some of their money by investing it in things the judge will likely not notice. For example, if you notice a brand new piece of expensive artwork, furniture, or memorabilia, it could be your spouse's way of hiding finances until the divorce is over. These types of items are easily sold after all is said and done so they can keep their money without it being a factor in determining alimony or spousal support amounts.
For more information or assistance, contact a divorce lawyer.