Hi Everyone,

I'm in the middle of a very messy divorce. My husband has his own business and I'm currently a stay at home mom. My attorney is really pushing for the use of a forensic accountant. This man is from out of town and has a reputation for being very good but very expensive. I'm trying to figure out whether this is a worthwhile investment. So any input would be appreciated. Thanks!

Hi Leah,

The question is do you think your stbx did not report all of his income or was he over zealous with his deductions. For some reason your lawyer must think there is a good potential that you will get more in child support and/or spousal support. I am an accountant (not cpa) and my lawyer has me doing the same thing (my stbx is self employed). Honestly if I had to hire someone I would not go through the trouble unless there was a lot of money hidden.


tdr

Thanks tdr,

I've already had two accountants briefly review his taxes- both corporate and individual. They both felt that the company he has used to prepare his taxes is a reputable company. They also ball-parked a number for a final settlement. The amazing thing was they came up with pretty much the same number!

I personally feel that if H has hidden money, he's had enough time to hide it well. He's very smart,resourceful and deceptive. He left me the first time seven years ago. So... I tend to think if it's hidden, it's gone.

I just hate the idea of spending thousands of dollars chasing money that more than likely won't be found. My attorney says she's wanting to retain this forensic guy with the idea of having the business appraised. But couldn't a regular business appraiser do that? Is it really necessary to have a forensic person? These are some of the things I'm trying to figure out.

Thanks again for your input.

Sometimes it is just the threat of a forensic accountant that will make settlement easier.
My attorney sent the long list of information required by the forensic accountant, and my X sent nothing.
I think fear will aid the settlement.

He already knows there's talk of a forensic accountant. My attorney requested financial info. eight months ago and we received nothing, also. Finally, last month we had to file a motion to compel to get the answers to the interrogatories. I just went to the office yesterday to review the info. and I see he still hasn't submitted everything. I keep hoping he'll come up in his offer so all this stuff will be unnecessary. Hope your settlement works out well.

Mine is done, and no inquiries were answered either.
Threaten if you need to do so, but you may still not get the answers.

Sorry I missed that the first time. I saw your divorce was finalized when reading your post in the other forum. Yes, I'm wondering how long it will take to get all the information or if we will ever get it. Hopefully, there will be enough information to be able to get a fair settlement. Thanks again, Newly.