March 1, 2021
Divorce can sometimes become a contentious experience between parties. Formerly intimate spouses turn into adversaries who will do anything to get a leg up on the other. Given this dynamic, some people may start to hide pertinent information necessary for the divorce case. This is where a private investigator comes in.
What Does a Private Investigator Do?
Private investigators can perform several functions in a divorce case. They are often hired to uncover hidden assets or gather evidence that will significantly impact a child custody case. Sometimes the task can be as simple as trying to catch a spouse in the act of cheating.
Private investigators are highly discreet trained professionals. They perform surveillance and may even pose undercover to learn more about their target. They have access to databases and other resources that are unavailable to the general public. All of this is done to gather concrete evidence for their client, file a special report, and eventually present it in court.
What Can a Private Investigator Uncover?
1. Hidden Assets
During the divorce process, one party may attempt to hide their assets to shield them from the case. They may try to use underhanded tactics such as moving funds to offshore accounts or selling property with the intention to reclaim it after the divorce has been finalized.
Private investigators access various databases and official government filings to find assets that have not been disclosed. If fraud is discovered, the court can award the asset’s entire value to the innocent spouse.
2. Evidence of Misconduct
Courts no longer require evidence of wrongdoing in order to grant a divorce. However, if marital misconduct is discovered, it can provide more favorable terms under a prenuptial agreement.
In the event of spousal or child abuse, private investigators can help file a restraining order. If a spouse is concerned about what happens when a child is visiting their other parent, a private investigator can be asked to conduct surveillance.
3. Spousal Support
If one party is required to pay spousal support, they may consort with their employer to keep salary information off the record or tamper with their business records to lower their net worth. Private investigators can help untangle these schemes through surveillance and financial analysis.
Should I Hire a Private Investigator for My Divorce?
Before heading down the path of investigating your spouse, you should ask yourself if it is a worthwhile endeavor. You shouldn’t let your emotions get in the way of making a decision based on logic and facts.
Ask yourself if it will help your case. Under Florida law, evidence of infidelity is only relevant if your spouse is engaging in inappropriate conduct in front of your children or if they are spending marital assets on a third party. Otherwise, hiring a private investigator will not result in evidence that can be used in your divorce case.
If you have suspicions that your spouse is hiding assets or committing any type of fraud, it’s essential to consult with a family lawyer before resorting to a private investigator. Your lawyer will advise you on what steps you need to take according to the law.
Conclusion
People in the middle of a divorce may resort to underhanded methods to cheat the system regarding asset division or child custody. Private investigators have the resources and experience in uncovering evidence of fraud. Before hiring a PI, consult your divorce lawyer if you need further investigation.
If you need a divorce lawyer in Jacksonville, FL, Dorsey Law Firm is here for you. William J. Dorsey has more than 35 years of experience in the state of Florida. By hiring an experienced divorce attorney, you’re laying the groundwork for the best possible outcome. Request a consultation with us today.
