When you choose dissolution in Ohio, the entire process depends on honesty. Both spouses must fully disclose every asset, debt, income source, and expense. That transparency is what allows a dissolution to move forward without conflict. But when one spouse begins hiding assets or manipulating money before or during the process, the situation changes. You may feel uneasy, unsure, or even guilty for questioning their behavior, but it is important to trust your instincts. When money starts to move in unusual ways, it often signals a deeper problem. At Garretson & Holcomb, LLC, we help individuals in West Chester, Ohio address this issue and protect their financial future. When you suspect misconduct, you do not have to handle the uncertainty alone.
Understanding that dissolution relies on complete honesty is the first step. If both spouses share accurate and complete financial information, the process often stays simple and respectful. But if your spouse is hiding money, concealing accounts, or misrepresenting what they owe, the dissolution may no longer be fair. When this happens, you have legal tools available. If you suspect financial misconduct at any stage, contact us at (513) 863-6600 so we can step in before the damage grows.
Common Forms of Financial Misconduct
Financial misconduct can take many forms in an Ohio dissolution, and some are subtle enough that people miss the signs for months. One of the most common behaviors is failing to disclose bank accounts, credit cards, investment accounts, or digital assets. A spouse may have income from freelance work, side jobs, rental properties, or bonuses that they choose not to report. Even smaller amounts, when hidden consistently, can shift the entire financial picture.
Another common tactic is manipulating asset values to create the impression that something is worth less than it is. This often occurs with small businesses, collections, real estate, or assets that require appraisal. A spouse may delay a contract, exaggerate a business loss, or claim market conditions have reduced the value of their property.
Transferring assets to third parties is a more serious form of misconduct. A spouse may suddenly “repay” a loan to a family member that was never documented. They may sign over a vehicle to a friend, transfer money to another person’s account, or start gifting items. The goal is often the same: to keep assets out of the dissolution so they are not divided.
How to Identify Red Flags
People rarely announce that they are hiding assets, so you may need to look for patterns rather than clear statements. One warning sign is incomplete or vague financial disclosures. If your spouse claims they “don’t remember” account details, leaves sections blank, or says documents are inaccessible, that is a red flag. Full disclosure is required in a dissolution.
Another sign is large withdrawals or transfers without explanation. Money leaving a shared account unexpectedly—whether in one large amount or many smaller amounts—can indicate attempts to move funds quietly. Payments to unfamiliar individuals or accounts should also raise questions.
Changes in financial behavior before filing may also signal misconduct. A spouse may stop depositing their paycheck into a shared account, switch to using cash, or pressure you to sign an agreement quickly. These tactics often appear when someone is trying to finalize the dissolution before the other spouse notices missing assets.
Legal Options in Ohio
When you come to Garretson & Holcomb, LLC with concerns about hidden assets, we start by helping you gather information. Even if you cannot access every document, we know how to request what is needed. One effective tool is using a forensic accountant. These professionals trace money, identify inconsistencies, evaluate business records, and examine tax returns to uncover signs of concealment. When used early, their work can make a significant difference in the outcome.
We can also request bank statements, account histories, loan records, payroll documents, and business information directly. If your spouse refuses to cooperate, that resistance alone can justify pausing the dissolution until full disclosure is made.
If the misconduct is serious enough that you cannot reach a fair agreement, we may advise switching from dissolution to divorce. Dissolution requires cooperation, but divorce allows stronger tools such as subpoenas and testimony. If your spouse is hiding assets, cooperation may no longer be realistic, and switching processes helps protect your rights.
Implications for the Separation Agreement
Financial misconduct does not just strain the relationship—it directly impacts the fairness of the separation agreement. If an agreement is based on false financial information, it is not valid in the way the law requires. If fraud is discovered during the dissolution process, we can challenge the agreement and halt the proceedings until full honesty is restored.
If hidden assets are found after the dissolution has been finalized, you still have options. Ohio courts allow cases to be reopened if there is evidence of fraud or intentional misrepresentation. A spouse who hid assets may be ordered to turn over your share, pay additional compensation, or even cover your attorney fees.
In severe cases, financial misconduct may result in criminal penalties. Hiding assets is not a harmless mistake—it is a form of fraud, and Ohio courts take it seriously. When a spouse intentionally withholds financial information, the consequences can be significant.
FAQ
Can I delay the dissolution if I suspect financial fraud?
Yes. Dissolution depends on agreement. If you believe your spouse is hiding money or assets, you can pause the process or switch to divorce so we can use stronger tools to uncover the truth.
What happens if hidden assets are found after dissolution?
Ohio allows cases to be reopened for fraud. If your spouse concealed assets, the court can award you your fair share and impose penalties on them.
Should I hire a forensic accountant?
In many cases, yes. A forensic accountant can detect unusual patterns or inconsistencies that are not obvious in basic paperwork. If you suspect financial misconduct, this step can be crucial.
If You Suspect Financial Misconduct, Act Quickly
When something feels wrong, you should not ignore it. Financial misconduct can affect your stability for years to come, and dissolution only works when both spouses are honest. As soon as you notice incomplete disclosures, unusual withdrawals, or sudden financial changes, reach out to us. Garretson & Holcomb, LLC is here in West Chester Township to protect your interests and ensure that the process reflects the truth—not hidden accounts or manipulated numbers. If you believe your spouse may be hiding money or misrepresenting their finances, call us at (513) 863-6600 so we can help you take the next steps.
