Grapevine Asset Dissipation Attorneys

Experienced Lawyers Protecting Clients From Dissipation in Grapevine, Texas

During the divorce process, you and your spouse may have to divide up a large amount of marital property. Unfortunately, not everyone is willing to approach property division in good faith. If you suspect that your spouse is intentionally squandering assets, you may be able to take action by filing a dissipation claim.

Trying to uncover evidence of dissipation can be difficult, often demanding a full investigation into your spouse's finances. At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we have the resources and skills to help you build a case for a dissipation claim, and we are ready to argue on your behalf in front of a judge.

Examples of Dissipation in a Divorce

Dissipation occurs when one spouse wastes or conceals marital assets for a purpose unrelated to the marriage. Common examples include diverting funds to secret bank accounts, extravagant spending on vacations or luxury goods, and making large gifts to friends or family members outside the scope of normal support. In another example, a spouse might cash out retirement accounts early, incur unnecessary debt, or transfer property into a business they control.

In Texas, courts will scrutinize transactions made during the marriage that unfairly deplete the community estate. Transactions disguised as legitimate business expenses—such as paying personal travel or entertainment from a corporate account—can also constitute dissipation when their true purpose is to shield assets from equitable division.

What Can I Do to Prove My Spouse Is Dissipating Assets?

Proving dissipation demands a methodical approach to trace financial activity and document misuse. You can begin by gathering bank and credit card statements, retirement account ledgers, and loan documents for the period leading up to separation. Reviewing canceled checks, wire transfers, and credit reports may reveal transfers to undisclosed accounts or third parties.

A forensic accountant can provide expert analysis of complex transactions, including corporate expense reports or transfers between multiple entities. You may also request discovery through written interrogatories, requests for production, and depositions to compel your spouse to explain questionable transfers. Subpoenas directed at third-party financial institutions or investment firms can uncover hidden holdings.

Showing that your spouse spent marital assets is rarely enough for a dissipation claim. If you believe that your spouse committed dissipation, you must usually show that your spouse's conduct was purposeful or reckless in nature. In many cases, email and text message records will demonstrate intent, showing that funds were used for personal benefit rather than legitimate joint expenses.

What Remedies Are Available for Dissipation in Grapevine?

Once dissipation is established, Texas courts have several remedies to restore equity. A court may award a monetary reimbursement to the innocent spouse, effectively pumping the dissipated funds back into the community estate.

Under Texas law, acts of dissipation may be classified as "fraud on the community." In response to a finding of dissipation, family law judges can adjust the division of property—awarding a larger share of remaining assets to the disadvantaged spouse—to offset losses. In extreme cases, a court may impose sanctions or hold the dissipating spouse in contempt for refusing to disclose assets or comply with discovery. Temporary restraining orders can freeze accounts or prohibit further transfers while litigation is pending.

Our firm can also seek compensation for attorney's fees and court costs associated with uncovering dissipation, shifting the financial burden onto the at-fault spouse.

Meet With a Grapevine, TX Asset Dissipation Lawyer

Protecting your assets is paramount in a strained divorce. At Powell Law Offices, P.C., you can rely on our legal team to provide you with aggressive representation to safeguard your assets and take action against dissipation. To schedule a free initial consultation, call us at 972-584-9382 today or contact our Grapevine divorce attorneys.