Spouses’ feelings often don’t remain static during a marital breakup. The initial knowledge or announcement of divorce can be met by an emotional tsunami. The urge to threaten or exact vengeance may be among thoughts on either side of a divorce.
You’ve probably heard of Columbus couples whose divorces were peppered with damaging statements like “I’ll make your life miserable” or “Just try to take the house/car/child and see what happens.” Many comments are empty threats that originate in pain, but some warnings need to be taken seriously.
Physical threats are a priority red flag but don’t discount asset stubbornness or deception. Some spouses develop an “If I can’t have it, you can’t either” attitude, like forcing a house sale just so an ex-spouse can’t stay there. Others have hidden away assets or liabilities meant to bypass the property division settlement.
Many spouses deny a former partner could act this way, simply because the behavior never surfaced in the past. Keeping track of threats and sharing what you learn in therapy or with a legal counselor can help you decide whether action or protection is necessary.
It’s likely your divorce attorney has dealt with many clients’ emotionally-charged disputes. A lawyer can provide advice, whether a spouse’s comments are false alarms or true financial dangers. The more you know about laws that protect you, your children and your property rights the less intimidating threats are.
Even if you suspect a divorce is on the horizon, it’s a good idea to learn all you can about the property you own independently and assets labeled marital property. Ohio is an equitable distribution state, which requires divorcing couples to split property fairly. Opposing definitions of “fair” are why couples end up before a judge.
Any threat to life or limb must be dealt with immediately. Safety comes before all else. Professionals also help protect financial concerns.
Source: Forbes, “How To Cope With Your Husband’s Financial Threats During Divorce” Jeff Landers, Jan. 08, 2014