Wasteful dissipation can have a profound impact on a divorce. If your spouse failed to protect certain marital assets or wasted marital assets in anticipation of the divorce, these acts may be considered wasteful dissipation. That said, such cases can be challenging to prove in court, so it is essential to hire an experienced attorney to handle your case. Continue reading to learn more about wasteful dissipation in a divorce.
The Impact it Can Have on a Divorce
There are several factors a judge will examine when determining whether or not your spouse’s actions should be considered wasteful dissipation. For example, if your spouse was always wasteful and irresponsible with marital assets and you never objected to it, it would be difficult to claim wasteful dissipation in court. On the other hand, if the behavior was unusual and only benefited your spouse rather than the household, a judge may consider it wasteful dissipation.
These are some examples of wasteful dissipation:
- Gambling
- Spending on recreational drugs and alcohol
- Wasting assets on an extramarital affair
- Making a major purchase before filing for divorce
Moreover, the sum of the marital assets wasted must be substantial. For example, if your spouse had an affair and took the person out to lunch or to see a movie, these minor expenses would not be considered wasteful dissipation. If your spouse conducted the affair in lavish hotels, however, such grand expenses may be considered wasteful dissipation.
If a judge determines that your spouse’s spending was an act of wasteful dissipation, you may be rewarded a larger share of marital assets to make up for the loss.
Schedule a Case Review with an Experienced Legal Professional Today!
Divorce is often a difficult experience for spouses, especially when financial problems are at play. If your spouse spent marital assets in anticipation of a divorce, you need to reach out to the family law team at The Law Offices of Mark R. Hinshaw, PLC to discuss the details of your case. Our knowledgeable attorneys are committed to guiding families through even the most complex divorce cases. With our team on your side, you can feel confident that you will receive the best possible results, so you can start a better new chapter in your life.
Reach out to our law office today at (515) 200-7571 to set up a consultation with a member of our team and learn more about your legal options.