What To Do If Your Spouse Drains Joint Bank Accounts Before Filing For A Tampa Divorce
There is a stomach-churning type of panic that sets in when you discover your spouse has emptied your joint bank account, particularly if you suspect they’re preparing to file for a divorce in Tampa. Whether their goal is to cut off your access to money, assert control, or get a head start on property division, this kind of financial move can put you in a vulnerable position fast.
The good news is, Florida law doesn’t allow one spouse to strip the other of resources without consequences. If you’re in this situation, our experienced Tampa divorce lawyer is here to help. We provide trusted, local legal services and take the actions needed to protect your assets, your legal rights, and your financial future.
When One Spouse Drains an Account, Florida Courts Pay Attention
Under Section 61.075 of the Florida Statutes, courts must divide marital assets equitably, though not necessarily equally, in a Tampa divorce. This includes money held in joint accounts. If one spouse tries to drain the account or hide money before a divorce filing, the court may consider that a form of “intentional dissipation” of marital assets.
These actions can and frequently do backfire. Judges have the authority to offset such financial misconduct when determining how to divide property or whether to award spousal support. Warning signs of financial misconduct to be alert for before a Tampa divorce:
- Large unexplained withdrawals from joint accounts;
- Transfers to family members or secret accounts;
- Removal of your name from banking or credit accounts;
- Sudden cash withdrawals or account closures;
- Disruption of direct deposits or bill payments.
The Florida courts expect full financial transparency during divorce proceedings. When one party acts in bad faith, it often leads to serious legal consequences.
How Our Tampa Divorce Attorney Can Help You Respond
If you find yourself locked out of your accounts or left with nothing, legal steps our Tampa divorce lawyer can take to help include:
- Filing a motion through the Hillsborough County Family Court, seeking a temporary injunction to freeze accounts or block further withdrawals;
- Requesting an emergency hearing to secure interim spousal support;
- Initiating financial discovery to uncover hidden or transferred assets;
- Enforcing mandatory financial disclosure rules under Florida Family Law Rule 12.285
Each of these actions is designed to stop financial damage, preserve your share of marital assets, and provide a more level playing field during divorce proceedings. The sooner legal steps are taken, the more options available.
Contact Our Experienced Tampa Divorce Lawyer Before More Damage Is Done
If your spouse drained the bank account before filing for divorce, don’t wait. You need someone in your corner right away.
Bubley & Bubley, P.A. provides trusted, local legal services to clients in these cases. We represent you in legal proceedings, build a solid case, and fight to ensure you have access to the financial resources you’re entitled to. To take the next step, call or contact our experienced Tampa divorce lawyer online. Request a confidential consultation today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.075.html
hillsclerk.com/court-services/family-law
supremecourt.flcourts.gov/content/download/345287/file/01-2344_rule.pdf
