If there is any danger that such property might disappear , suggest an inventory in the presence of, and photographed by, a reliable and neutral third party. During times of domestic tranquility, most spouses give little thought to the issue of access to books and records. These may consist of canceled checks and bank statements, personal and business tax returns, insurance and appraisal documents and titles to real estate, cars or other personal property. While most such papers can be obtained in discovery, there is no substitute for having immediate access. Make sure, therefore, that your client has complete and legible copies of all key documents.
Most married people file joint income tax returns.
Some do so with a relatively well-informed degree of financial sophistication. There are many instances in which divorce litigation arises out of spousal infidelity, or an allegation of financial or other perceived dishonesty. A detective may have been hired to follow your client or to document various activities of your client. Yet, there are appropriate circumstances when your client may need to establish various proofs. The initial marital separation is a time of extreme emotional stress.