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What happens when your ex hides assets during divorce?

The family courts take financial dishonesty seriously. If someone lies about their income, withholds documents, or conceals assets during divorce, it can directly affect the outcome of the case, and the court will not hesitate to intervene.

In VTY v GDB, a husband who repeatedly defied court orders and misled the court ended up facing a significant penalty.

His wife was awarded over £1.2 million, while he was left with less than half that amount and a costs order on top.

The legal duty to disclose everything during divorce

In financial remedy proceedings, both parties are under a legal duty to provide complete and accurate information about their finances.

This includes assets, income, pensions, business interests and debts.

This obligation is formalised through Form E, a detailed document where each person sets out their financial position.

The court relies on this information to make a fair division of assets.

If one party withholds or distorts information, it undermines the whole process.

What the court can do if your ex hides assets

The courts have wide powers to deal with non-disclosure.

If it becomes clear that one party has lied, failed to provide documents, or tried to conceal money or property, the court can:

Infer the existence of undisclosed assets
Make adverse findings that result in a lower award for the dishonest party
Revisit and overturn earlier orders if new evidence comes to light
Impose a costs order, meaning the dishonest party may have to pay the other’s legal fees

In VTY v GDB, the husband’s repeated dishonesty led the court to award the wife over £1.2 million, including a mortgage-free home and school fees.

His conduct stripped the court of other options, including the possibility of ongoing maintenance payments.

What to do if you suspect financial dishonesty

If you believe your ex is hiding money, under-declaring income, or being evasive with disclosure, it is important to raise this early in the divorce process.

As your solicitors, we can:

Request specific disclosure of bank statements, company accounts or other documents
Apply for a court order compelling disclosure
Present a strong case to the court about your ex’s litigation conduct

This can make a major difference to the eventual outcome of your case.

Don’t let dishonesty go unchallenged

Non-disclosure is a serious breach of duty with financial consequences.

If your ex is being evasive or dishonest in divorce proceedings, we can help you take control. Contact us today for expert legal support.

Stuart Daniel

Director – Head of Family Department

I qualified as a Solicitor in 2006 and now specialise in divorce, financial settlements, childcare arrangements and Pre Nuptial Agreements. I have many years’ experience as a private family lawyer having worked with two other local firms before returning to Mander Hadley, where I first undertook work experience during my university studies.