Divorce is never easy, but when the separation involves disputes over money, property, and investments, the process can become especially complicated. In Tennessee, contested divorces often turn on one central question: what assets exist, and how should they be divided? Locating and valuing those assets is critical to ensuring a fair outcome.
Why Hidden Assets Are a Concern
In high-stakes divorces, it’s not uncommon for one spouse to underreport or attempt to hide assets. This can include:
- Bank accounts in different states or under alternate names.
- Undisclosed business interests or partnerships.
- Deferred compensation packages, stock options, or restricted stock units.
- Physical property such as collectibles, jewelry, or vehicles.
- Transferring funds to relatives or friends to conceal ownership.
When assets aren’t properly disclosed, the division of property can be skewed, leaving one spouse unfairly disadvantaged.
Tools for Locating Assets
Finding assets in a contested divorce often requires a multi-layered approach:
- Financial Disclosures: Tennessee law requires both spouses to provide a sworn statement of income, assets, and debts.
- Discovery Process: Attorneys may use depositions, interrogatories, and document requests to uncover hidden information.
- Subpoenas: Banks, employers, and business partners can be compelled to provide records.
- Forensic Accountants: These professionals trace money trails, identify irregularities, and value complex assets like businesses or investment portfolios.
The goal is to build a complete financial picture so that the court can divide marital property fairly.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Dividing marital assets isn’t always as straightforward as splitting bank accounts. Businesses, retirement accounts, and investments often require careful valuation. Even more, Tennessee law distinguishes between marital and separate property, meaning not everything accumulated during the marriage is subject to division. Having an attorney ensures assets are correctly classified, valued, and brought to light if a spouse attempts to conceal them.
How Champagne Law Firm Can Help
At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent clients across East and Middle Tennessee in contested divorce cases. Our team understands the strategies used to hide assets and has the tools to uncover them. With Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom’s background as both a former financial advisor and now a practicing attorney, we bring unique insight into complex financial matters, from stock portfolios and retirement accounts to business valuations and real estate holdings.
Taking the Next Step
If you are facing a contested divorce and suspect your spouse may be hiding assets, time is critical. Proper investigation and legal strategy can make the difference between an unfair settlement and one that truly protects your future.
Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation about contested divorce and asset division.
