Most divorces in Massachusetts may not need the expertise of a forensic accountant in their divorce. However, if you have a high income or net worth, you may want to consider hiring one. Dividing your marital assets during divorce can be complex with stock options, properties, credit cards, bank accounts, retirement portfolios and more.
Forbes states that dividing assets in amicable divorces can still be complex. High net worth couples may have a variety of assets located in trusts, stock and tangible items such as artwork. Dividing these among the two of you requires an appraisal for valuable items such as antiques.
If you have property or assets in multiple states or countries, the complexity of dividing assets becomes more complicated. The financial implications of the various assets are not something divorce attorneys should be counted on to do accurately. A forensic accountant understands the ins and outs of the financial world and can more accurately assess the value of various assets.
If you feel your spouse may be hiding financial documents and accounts, a forensic accountant can help ferret out that information. Your final settlement has serious implications for you financially for years to come, so it is crucial to know as much as possible before signing the statement.
A forensic accountant can testify on your behalf should the case go to court to be decided by a judge. Many divorced spouses fight to offer up all the relevant financial documents in an orderly fashion making it difficult to sift through unless you know what you are looking for. This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.