Occasionally one party will seek to thwart the other parties application for financial provision by hiding assets or sources of income.

It is central to financial  resolution on divorce that each party candidly discloses their financial position – for example bank statements, accounts, wage slips and so on.  This is usually done by agreement (voluntary exchange) or via sworn statements within court proceedings (exhibiting key documents).

Sometimes this may not provide enough information.  For example:-

(1) Where the initial documents (or other information) suggest there are additional undisclosed resources or where there is other reasonable evidence of other resources.

(2) Where information may be required from third parties (new co-habitees or reluctant business associates).

(3) Where there are other assets which may require up to date valuations.

The court has a range of powers to enable it to access more information and documents which in appropriate cases will include:-

The courts disapprove of “self help” or pilfering documents or material from the other party.  Courts do not condone and may penalise such activity.  Extreme caution is required.

Similarly the courts take a serious view of concealment and if they think an asset has been hidden or undervalued there can be adverse consequences.
 

We are able to offer specialist advice.

Call 01323 720142 now for a consultation with a specialist Solicitor or a Lawyer at Lawson Lewis & Co.

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