Q: How to block access to spouse's unknown safe deposit boxes?
This is in MA. my spouse most likely has one or more safe deposit boxes with cash/valuables in them, they may be in other nearby states. I do not know the institutions or locations of the safe deposit boxes but i'm pretty sure as soon as I file for divorce, the valuables will be withdrawn. What can I do to prevent that from happening.
Thanks in advance!
A: If possible, you should review his bank statements which should contain an annual or quarterly bill for the safe deposit service and keep a copy of this documentation. The there is an automatic asset restraining order that applies to the plaintiff upon filing of the divorce in Massachusetts and on the defendant upon service of the divorce complaint and summons. There is a mandatory self-disclosure rule whereby parties in divorce are to promptly exchange their financial information. Meet with an experienced divorce attorney and don't try to go solo especially if there are significant assets involved.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
