Hidden Gems: Finding Hidden Assets During Property Division in a San Diego Divorce

Dividing property in a divorce is always a sensitive and complex process. But when high-value assets are involved, the situation becomes even more challenging. In California, both parties are legally required to disclose all assets during divorce proceedings. Unfortunately, not everyone follows the rules.

If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets to avoid fair division, you are not alone. And you are not without options. Amelia J. Mattis is a high-asset divorce attorney in San Diego. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we provide strategic, thoughtful, and determined representation in high-asset divorce cases, including those involving undisclosed income, real estate, investments, and offshore accounts.

Signs and Red Flags: Is Your Spouse Hiding Assets?

Hiding assets in divorce is illegal, but it still happens more often than you might think. In high-asset divorces, the complexity of marital finances can make it easier to conceal income, investments, and valuable property. Some warning signs include:

• Sudden changes in spending or bank withdrawals
• Missing financial documents or restricted access to shared accounts
• New business ventures or loans you weren’t told about
• A noticeable decrease in reported income without explanation
• Transferring money to friends or relatives
• Underreporting business revenue

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth investigating. Trust your instincts and seek legal guidance as early as possible.

Do You Suspect Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets?

Call Mattis Law, A.P.C. at (858) 328-4400 to speak with a divorce attorney who knows how to uncover what’s being concealed

Types of Hidden Assets in Divorce

Spouses seeking to avoid equitable division may go to great lengths to shield wealth from disclosure. Hidden assets can take many forms, including:

Undeclared Income

If your spouse owns a business or is self-employed, they may underreport revenue or delay payments to make it appear as though they earn less than they do. Other tactics include paying fake employees, creating false invoices, or stashing cash.

Offshore Accounts

Foreign bank accounts or international investments may not appear in standard financial disclosures. Tracking offshore activity requires skilled legal and financial support.

Hidden Properties

A spouse may try to hide vacation homes, undeveloped land, or rental properties by titling them under a business entity or placing them in someone else’s name. These holdings may be overlooked if not thoroughly investigated.

Real Estate Holdings

A property portfolio can be used to disguise wealth, especially when assets are layered under business structures or held out of state. High-value properties may also be undervalued intentionally.

Undisclosed Investments

Cryptocurrency wallets, stock portfolios, startup equity, and private investments are increasingly used to hide or downplay wealth. These assets can fluctuate in value and may not appear in traditional bank records.

Overstating Debts

Some spouses may falsely inflate their debts or claim business losses to reduce their net worth. This tactic is used to avoid paying spousal support or reduce the amount of community property to divide.

Reasons to Contact a San Diego High-Assets Divorce Lawyer Right Away

Time is critical in any divorce, but especially so when hidden assets may be involved. Acting early provides key advantages:

• Preserve Evidence: Digital data can be deleted. Early legal action can help preserve crucial information.
• Prevent Transfers: A divorce filing can restrict asset movement through automatic restraining orders.
• Start Discovery Sooner: The faster discovery begins, the sooner we can identify discrepancies.
• Build a Strong Case: Strategic planning early in the process strengthens your position in court or negotiation.

Even if you’re not ready to file for divorce, speaking with an attorney can help you prepare, assess your risks, and develop a smart financial strategy.

Working With Financial Experts

Uncovering hidden assets often requires more than a surface-level review of bank statements. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we collaborate with forensic accountants, valuation specialists, and financial analysts to examine:

• Tax returns
• Business records
• Investment portfolios
• Credit card statements
• Bank activity
• Public records for real estate and business ownership

These professionals help trace the flow of money, determine the true value of assets, and expose inconsistencies in your spouse’s disclosures.

Legal Tools for Discovery

California divorce laws empower your attorney to investigate suspected financial misconduct. Tools we may use include:

• Interrogatories and Requests for Admission: Written questions your spouse must answer under oath
• Requests for Production: Legal requests for documents and records
• Depositions: Sworn testimony taken in person
• Subpoenas: Court orders compelling third parties (e.g., banks or employers) to provide records

Discovery procedures can uncover concealed income, locate unknown accounts, and force accountability.

You Deserve Full Disclosure.

If something feels off, trust your instincts. Contact Mattis Law, A.P.C. at (858) 328-4400 for answers.

Technology and Digital Forensics

In today’s digital world, valuable evidence often lives on phones, laptops, and cloud accounts. Digital forensics experts can recover deleted files, examine online transactions, and access metadata that reveals suspicious behavior.

Digital clues can lead to:

• Cryptocurrency transactions
• Hidden communication with financial advisors
• Undisclosed business activity
• Financial apps and mobile banking records

Using technology to uncover the truth is especially important in high-asset cases where digital assets and communications are easily manipulated.

Legal Consequences of Concealing Assets

California law is clear: hiding assets during divorce is illegal. If a spouse is caught concealing property or income, the court may impose serious penalties, including:

• Awarding 100% of the hidden asset to the other spouse
• Sanctions or fines
• Perjury charges
• Negative impact on credibility and future court rulings

Judges do not look kindly on dishonesty, and the consequences of hiding assets can drastically change the outcome of your divorce.

How an Experienced San Diego Divorce Attorney Can Help

Amelia J. Mattis is known for her compassionate approach and relentless preparation. In cases involving hidden assets, she takes a strategic and methodical approach to uncover the full financial picture.

When you work with Mattis Law, A.P.C., you gain:

• An attorney who listens and works closely with you to understand your goals
• A legal strategy tailored to complex financial matters
• Access to trusted forensic experts and financial analysts
• Strong advocacy during discovery, negotiations, and trial if necessary
• A focus on protecting your financial future and achieving a fair outcome

You do not have to navigate this process alone. Whether your spouse is shielding wealth through businesses, trusts, or false reporting, we work to ensure every dollar is accounted for.

Why Choose Us Over Other High-Asset Divorce Lawyers in San Diego?

There are many attorneys in San Diego who handle divorce cases, but not all are equipped to handle the challenges that come with hidden assets and high net worth.

Here’s why clients choose Amelia J. Mattis:

• Focused on Results: Every case is prepared thoroughly with long-term financial stability in mind.
• Experienced in Complex Property Division: From business valuations to digital assets, we know where to look.
• Client-Centered Approach: You’ll never feel like just a case number. We provide responsive, supportive guidance every step of the way.
• Respected and Recognized: Amelia J. Mattis has been named one of the 10 Best Family Law Attorneys in California and is a Super Lawyers Rising Star.
• Transparency and Integrity: Our goal is to find the truth and protect what matters to you most.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

I highly recommend her -Sally Kim (5-Star Google Review)

I cannot thank Amelia enough for her exceptional service during a challenging time in my life. From our very first time meeting, she has made me feel heard, supported, and understood. Not only is her knowledge of family law incredible, she is also extremely detail-orientated, which has given me peace of mind throughout the entire process. She also always had a compassionate approach and even took the time to explain the approach with me every step of the way, ensuring that we were always on the same page. Thanks to Amelia, I was able to reach a fair resolution that protect my interests and those of my family. I highly recommend her. You will be in excellent hands!

I have recommended her to my own friends and family -Cassidy (5-Star Google Review)

If you are going through a divorce, child custody issue, or really anything family law related in San Diego, Amelia Mattis is the attorney for you. She cares deeply about her clients and is extremely professional. You can tell that the judges, other attorneys and professionals on that case respect her, and that really makes your case reach resolution. Amelia always explains your options concisely and with advice so that you can make an informed decision for your family. She is even upfront about costs, so you know what to expect and what options you have in your budget. I have recommended her to my own friends and family, if you think you need a family law attorney in San Diego, do not hesitate to call her!

Speak With an Experienced San Diego High-Asset Divorce Lawyer Today

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we understand how overwhelming divorce can be, especially when you’re dealing with financial secrecy and uncertainty about your future. You deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing your legal team is uncovering the truth and fighting for a fair outcome.

If you believe your spouse is hiding assets, or if you simply want to be sure everything is on the table, schedule a free consultation with Amelia J. Mattis today.

Call (858) 328-4400 to speak with a trusted attorney and learn more about your options.

Frequently Asked Question

What are hidden assets in a divorce?

Hidden assets are any income, property, or investments that one spouse intentionally fails to disclose during the divorce process. These can include cash, real estate, cryptocurrency, business income, or even luxury items kept out of sight to avoid fair division.

Is it illegal for a spouse to hide assets during divorce?

Yes. Under California law, both parties are legally required to fully disclose all assets and debts. Intentionally hiding property or income can lead to severe legal consequences, including court sanctions, fines, or losing the asset entirely.

How can I tell if my spouse is hiding assets?

Common signs include restricted access to financial accounts, sudden changes in spending or income, missing tax documents, or unexplained loans or transfers. If you notice inconsistencies or feel your spouse isn’t being truthful, it’s important to speak with an attorney right away.

What types of assets are commonly hidden in high-asset divorces?

Spouses may attempt to hide assets such as:

• Undeclared business revenue
• Offshore bank accounts
• Real estate held under different names or companies
• Cryptocurrency wallets
• Undisclosed investments
• Overstated business debts or fake liabilities

What can a divorce attorney do to find hidden assets?

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we use legal tools like subpoenas, interrogatories, depositions, and financial disclosures to identify inconsistencies. We also collaborate with forensic accountants and valuation experts to trace income, examine business records, and uncover concealed holdings.

Can digital forensics help find hidden assets?

Yes. Digital forensics can uncover deleted files, online account activity, and hidden communications related to asset concealment. This is especially useful when assets are stored electronically or managed through apps, online banking, or cryptocurrency platforms.

What happens if hidden assets are discovered after the divorce is finalized?

If one party can prove that their ex-spouse intentionally hid assets during the divorce, the court may reopen the case. The court may award the full value of the hidden asset to the wronged spouse and impose additional legal penalties on the person who concealed it.

Do I need a forensic accountant to find hidden assets?

Maybe. A forensic accountant can trace complex financial transactions, analyze business records, and identify discrepancies that may indicate hidden income or property. Attorney Amelia J. Mattis can connect you with trusted professionals as part of your case strategy.

How soon should I speak with a lawyer if I suspect hidden assets?

Right away. The earlier you act, the more legal options you have to protect your financial interests. Call (858) 328-4400 to schedule a consultation with a San Diego divorce lawyer at Mattis Law, A.P.C. and begin investigating any concerns you may have.

What makes Mattis Law, A.P.C. different in high-asset property division cases?

Amelia J. Mattis brings compassionate advocacy and detailed financial investigation to every high-asset case. With a reputation for thorough preparation and personalized support, our firm focuses on ensuring clients receive a fair and accurate division of all marital property.

Meet Our San Diego Divorce Attorney

Amelia J. Mattis

Amelia J. Mattis is a dedicated San Diego family law attorney known for her compassionate guidance and meticulous approach to high-conflict and high-asset divorce cases. As the founding attorney of Mattis Law, A.P.C., she is committed to helping clients navigate some of life’s most difficult moments with clarity, dignity, and a focus on long-term stability.

Amelia brings a unique blend of empathy and precision to her practice. She understands the emotional weight of family law disputes and works closely with each client to ensure they feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout the legal process. Her approach is strategic and detail-driven, particularly in complex matters such as child custody modifications, parental alienation, emergency custody, and the division of substantial financial assets.

Clients value Amelia’s responsiveness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to their case. Whether advocating in the courtroom or negotiating outside of it, she remains focused on achieving practical solutions that protect her clients’ rights and their future.