Hidden Debts In A Fort Lauderdale Divorce: What To Look For And How Getting Legal Help Protects You

When going through a Fort Lauderdale divorce, people are often shocked to discover their spouse was keeping financial secrets, such as credit cards they didn’t know existed, personal loans taken out behind their backs, or unpaid taxes that now threaten both parties. These hidden debts can create serious problems.

In Florida, marital debts are divided just like assets, which means that even if you didn’t incur the debt yourself, you could still be responsible for part of it. Working with an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer who understands how to identify and expose undisclosed financial liabilities is one of the most important steps you can take.

Common Types of Hidden Debts That Surface in a Fort Lauderdale Divorce

Spouses conceal debt for many reasons, such as fear, guilt, control, or simply bad financial habits. In some cases, underreporting may allow them to get more than their fair share when it comes to property division.

Section 61.075 of the Florida Statutes dictates that all marital property be divided equitably in divorce. That includes debts. During Fort Lauderdale divorce proceedings, you and your lawyer should be alert for:

• Secret credit cards or personal loans opened without your knowledge.
• Unpaid taxes or IRS penalties from joint filings.
• Hidden business liabilities disguised under separate accounts.
• Unauthorized withdrawals from joint savings, investment, or retirement funds.
• Loans from family or friends that were never disclosed.

The law requires each party in a Broward County divorce to make a full financial disclosure. Unfortunately, hidden debts can affect your rights in a divorce settlement and your financial security moving forward.

How a Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer Protects You Financially

During a Florida divorce, the discovery process involves sharing information with the opposing party. It is designed to ensure transparency, but you need an advocate who knows how to dig deeper when something doesn’t add up. Ways our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer can help:

• Review credit reports and bank statements to uncover unauthorized accounts or charges.
• Analyze financial records for any businesses your spouse may own.
• Use subpoenas and interrogatories to compel full financial disclosure of debts.
• File a motion for contempt or sanctions if your spouse deliberately hides debts or refuses to comply with court orders.

These steps not only expose hidden liabilities but also protect you from being unfairly burdened with debts that aren’t yours.

To Protect Your Financial Security, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer

Going through a divorce in Fort Lauderdale is stressful enough without the added fear of financial surprises. Whether you suspect your spouse has concealed debts or simply want to ensure you get the maximum amount you are entitled to, getting professional legal help makes all the difference.

Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices provides experienced, trusted legal guidance throughout the divorce process. To protect your rights and financial security, call or contact our office online to schedule a confidential consultation with our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html

flcourts.gov/Services/Family-Courts/domestic-relations-court-resources/family-law-forms/Additional-Supporting-Documents-12.902-Forms-B-J/Family-Law-Financial-Affidavit