There can be a major imbalance if you are divorcing someone who controls all the finances in your relationship. When one spouse handles all the bank accounts, investments and bills, the other may feel powerless.
However, there are steps you can take to protect your financial rights during divorce. In New Jersey, each spouse has the right to a fair share of marital assets.
Start gathering financial documents early
Collect copies of bank statements, retirement account balances, tax returns, credit card records and pay stubs if possible. Property titles, insurance policies or business interests are also very important. This information helps reveal the full picture of what exists in your marital estate. Courts in New Jersey require full financial disclosure, so this step is essential.
Request a court-ordered disclosure if needed
New Jersey courts expect both spouses to submit detailed Case Information Statements. These documents show income, expenses, assets and debts. If a spouse hides money or refuses to share information, the court may compel them to provide it. Hiding assets may lead to penalties and reduce the dishonest spouse’s share of the property.
Ask for temporary support if necessary
If the spouse with financial control refuses to share funds during the divorce, the dependent spouse may request temporary financial support. This can include spousal support, child support or funds to pay for basic living expenses. The court may also order one spouse to pay certain household bills while the case moves forward.
Watch for signs of hidden or transferred assets
Some spouses try to move money to relatives, open secret accounts or create fake debts. Watch for large withdrawals, cash transfers or new accounts that do not make sense. New Jersey courts treat all marital assets as part of the divorce, even if one spouse tries to hide them. Proving this behavior may lead the court to adjust the final division in your favor.
Even if one spouse managed the finances during the marriage, the divorce process requires both sides to stay involved. Asking questions, understanding financial records and tracking court deadlines helps keep the process fair. New Jersey law aims to divide property equitably based on the facts of the case.