How do spouses hide money in a divorce?

How do spouses hide money in a divorce?

Unfortunately, some spouses attempt to hide assets before or during a divorce in order to avoid sharing them with to their soon-to-be ex. However, divorcing spouses in all states can use powerful legal tools, called “discovery,” to help them find hidden income and other assets (discovery is explained in detail below).

What is not considered marital property?

Though the term non-marital property often refers to any personal or real property owned prior to, and brought into the marriage, it can also refer to things such as inheritances and gifts made to only one spouse.

What should I ask for in a divorce discovery?

The type of discovery include: Interrogatories—which are written questions that must be answered under oath. Requests for production of documents—asking that certain documents be provided by you or your spouse. Requests for admissions—asking that certain facts be admitted or denied.

Can you refuse to answer interrogatories?

If you are unable to answer an interrogatory because it is too vague, ambiguous, or somehow objectionable, you can state an objection and the reason for your objection. You must then answer to the extent the interrogatory is not objectionable.

What happens if Discovery is not answered?

If answer is not made in that time, the party who issued discovery can request the court to enter sanctions against the non-answering party. Sanctions: Official penalty/punishment. Sanctions can include any “just” penalty including dismissing the case, striking pleadings and ordering payment of attorney fees.

How much does discovery cost in a divorce?

Ideally, if parties agree to settlement terms early on in the case the cost will be far less than if multiple hearings are required, discovery has to be initiated, and so forth. A rough estimate for an “easy” case will be around $2,500 to complete the case. The cost will go up from there.

How does discovery work in divorce?

By definition, discovery is part of the pre-trial phase of a divorce in which each side obtains evidence and information from the other side. The goal of discovery is to make sure that both sides have the same information that will allow you to better negotiate a fair agreement as part of your final settlement.

How much does divorce cost in CA?

Average cost of divorce in California. At a minimum, you’ll need to pay the $435 filing fee to get divorced in California. The spouse that files a response to that divorce petition will also pay a $435 filing fee. You’ll also need to factor in photocopies and mailing costs.

Does it matter who files for divorce first in California?

There really is not distinct advantage during the pendency of a divorce case to be the Petitioner or the Respondent. Most legal experts believe that there is little legal advantage to who files first because California is a no-fault divorce state, so the court really doesn’t care who files the petition first.