The Daily Mail today features a story about a successful Deal or No Deal contestant who set about spending his winnings before his wife could claim a share. According to the article, Mr Brown had Separated from his wife shortly before he appeared on the show. He did not inform her that he had won £50,000 and hoped to use the delay before the show was aired to spend his winnings before his wife became aware and sought a share. In the weeks following his win he successfully worked his way through the majority of the cash by paying off debts and buying various items. His wife then reportedly sought a Freezing Order from the court to stop him from using the money, but was too late. The paper reports that the matter was considered by the Court in Doncaster last week, but that no decision will be made until Mr Brown has filed evidence on exactly what has happened to the cash. Disposing of assets is a common tactic in Divorce cases, but one which almost always backfires. The courts will usually take an extremely dim view of such actions and penalise the individual in costs orders, and/or by awarding their spouse the majority of what is left, though as always, it very much depends on the facts of the case. Freezing orders can be a useful tool in preventing such behaviour, but as this case demonstrates, time is of the essence. Anyone concerned that their spouse may try to hide or dispose of assets is always advised to seek Advice as soon as possible, as once the money has gone; there is often little that can be done. Contact our specialist Family Law team If you would like to talk to any of our specialist Family Law Solicitors please contact them on 0800 916 9055 or e-mail enquiries@rjwslatergordon.co.uk. Our Family Law Solicitors operate across the country and can offer immediate and accessible representation anywhere in England & Wales.
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