The idea of using a private investigator or an “expert” as one of the tools in your child custody battle may sound a tad dramatic, but both are fairly common in high net-worth divorces, especially in matters that include highly contested child custody battles.

What Is a High Net Worth Divorce?

Although every divorce proceeding is unique, high-net-worth divorces are typically divorces that involve assets beyond a home, cars, and a pension plan. Instead, high-net-worth divorces typically deal with a couple who have significant assets. Examples include the division of major assets such as multiple properties, boats, intellectual property, copyrights, planes, a fleet of cars, significant savings, stocks, etc.

Just like any divorce, children of high-net-worth couples are likely caught in the crossfires of emotion and familial changes. Many high-net-worth divorces also involve prominent community figures, dramatizing family affairs beyond the public. High net worth divorces also typically take longer because the court needs to address more assets.

The complexity of these cases often demands specialized assistance to ensure the protection of significant assets and the best interests of the children.

How Can a Private Investigator Help in a Custody Battle?

In high-net-worth divorces, one party may attempt to hide some assets as a tactic to reduce alimony payments or increase child support obligations. Private investigators can conduct thorough financial investigations, trace hidden assets, and unveil any attempts to misrepresent the true extent of wealth. Their findings can significantly impact the division of assets and support the interests of the financially vulnerable spouse as well as the children.

Private investigators can also help by conducting surveillance to gather evidence about a parent's behavior and living conditions. How do they spend their free time? Whom do they bring to their house? These activities and habits are useful information because they feed the court more information about your child's potential well-being and safety while under their care.

How Can Experts Help?

Several different types of experts can be instrumental in child custody battles. For instance, financial investigators, referred to as forensic accountants, can help uncover hidden funds in undisclosed bank accounts, offshore accounts, real estate holdings, fictitious businesses, etc.

Child psychologists can also help a court evaluate what effect the living conditions, lifestyle, and overall well-being of each parent will have on the children.

Pennsylvania Child Custody Attorney

Navigating a high-net-worth divorce and a private custody battle can be emotionally taxing and legally challenging. Working with a private investigator or an expert can make a significant difference in safeguarding assets and protecting the couple's children. The LLF Law Firm Family Law Team is available to answer any questions you have about how to strategically approach your custody battle. Contact us today by calling (888) 535-3686 or by using our online contact form.