When faced with the potential of losing half your assets and money, some people get scared or angry and do things they should not do. They want to protect themselves or punish their ex. But in attempting to do so, they could wind up creating more problems.
One mistake people make in this situation is to conceal or lie about their assets. Below, we explain the consequences of these actions.
Creating doubt, mistrust
Often, parties divorcing in Nebraska will go through mediation to resolve family legal matters. Mediation can have numerous benefits, including the potential for being faster and more peaceful. It can also allow parties to have more control over the outcomes.
When mediation is unsuccessful, parties can end up in costly, stressful litigation, which people often want to avoid.
Lying or misrepresenting your assets in mediation can understandably anger your ex. As such, they may be unwilling to continue out-of-court discussions or demand more money or property than what they previously were willing to accept.
Lying on legal documents
Financial affidavits are legal documents; lying while under oath is a crime. Thus, there are penalties if you intentionally say or sign something that isn’t true regarding your divorce.
Depending on the details of a case, a person concealing assets or lying under oath can face consequences like:
- A smaller portion of the marital estate
- Orders to pay fines or legal fees for your ex
- Criminal charges and possible jail time
These penalties can be costly and disruptive, so full disclosure and honesty are crucial in property division matters.
Tarnishing your reputation
Divorce is undoubtedly stressful. And under these circumstances, you might do or say things you would not do or say under normal circumstances.
Lying in the interest of self-preservation may be tempting or feel justified. However, such actions can make a person appear vengeful, volatile or untrustworthy in the eyes of the courts and others interested in your situation.
These impressions can tarnish a person’s reputation, adversely affecting aspects of the divorce as well as a person’s personal and professional life.
Finding lawful ways to protect yourself
Lying is never wise when it comes to family legal matters, but that does not mean you should not take steps to protect yourself.
Instead of being dishonest, parties can utilize lawful solutions and legitimate tools to secure a fair settlement and preserve their financial future.
