Very often, when one party is contemplating a divorce, he (or she) hides assets that might otherwise be eligible for distribution as part of the property settlement. Very often women are at a disadvantage at the outset of a divorce because the husband very often manages his money and her money and their money, and the wife has a limited understanding of their assets and liabilities.
Sometimes these machinations become quite complicated and require a forensic accountant who can analyze financial records for collusion with a business partner in hiding or misrepresenting marital assets.
A expert witness.
Assets can sometimes be hidden in a variety of ways. For example, closely held business. Unusual expenses are another red flag.
Judges look very unfavorably on both dissipation and hiding of assets.
See also UCC Filings.