What Do I Do If My Spouse Hides Assets During Our Divorce?

 Posted on July 09, 2025 in Family Law

Divorce is already one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through. If your spouse tries to hide money, property, or other assets, it adds another layer of betrayal and complexity. Financial transparency is not just a courtesy during divorce in Illinois; it is a legal requirement. 

When one spouse attempts to conceal assets, it can jeopardize the outcome and violate state law. If you suspect your spouse is hiding something, it is vital to seek legal guidance. A knowledgeable Naperville family law attorney can help you uncover the truth, protect your financial interests, and work toward a fair and just resolution.

Why Do Spouses Hide Assets During Divorce?

In some divorces, one spouse may try to hide assets to avoid dividing them fairly. This behavior is often driven by a desire to keep more property, avoid paying support, or maintain control. It is especially common when one spouse managed the finances or in a high-asset divorce.

Methods of hiding assets range from simple to sophisticated. A spouse might:

• Transfer money to a friend or relative

• Conceal business income

• Create fake debts

• Delay bonuses

• Open secret accounts

• Use cash transactions or overpay taxes to shield funds

These tactics can be difficult to detect without the right financial documents or professional help, and they may be considered fraudulent under Illinois law.

How Can You Tell If Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets?

Detecting hidden assets can be challenging, especially if your spouse has always managed the household finances. However, certain signs may suggest something is not right. Sudden changes in financial behavior, like unexplained withdrawals, missing account statements, or new debts, could be red flags. 

Trusting your instincts is important. If something feels off, it probably deserves a closer look. The earlier you alert your lawyer, the more likely it is that hidden assets can be uncovered.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Asset Hiding?

If you think your spouse is hiding money or property, it is essential to act carefully. Do not confront them directly, as this could give them time to cover his or her tracks. Instead, document anything suspicious and share it with your attorney. Your lawyer can use legal tools like subpoenas, depositions, and requests for financial documents to uncover the truth. In some cases, your attorney may recommend hiring a forensic accountant, who can trace transactions and identify hidden funds.

What Happens If the Court Finds Hidden Assets?

Section 503 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act requires both spouses to fully disclose all assets and debts. If a spouse is caught hiding assets, the judge may respond by:

• Awarding the entire value of the hidden asset to the other spouse

• Ordering the deceptive spouse to pay the other party’s legal fees

In severe cases, a person may be held in contempt of court. Criminal charges could follow if the hiding involved fraudulent documents or false testimony. The courts take financial dishonesty seriously and have tools to correct the injustice.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Divorce Lawyer

If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets during divorce, do not wait to get legal help. A skilled Naperville, IL family law attorney at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices can investigate your concerns, gather financial evidence, and advocate for a fair outcome. Call 630-932-9100 today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.