Using Forensic Accountants in High-Asset Washington Divorces

When a divorce involves significant property, business ownership, or complex financial structures, accurate valuation is essential. Unfortunately, assets aren’t always straightforward. Income can be hidden, expenses can be inflated, and property can be undervalued. In these cases, a forensic accountant can be one of the most important experts on your team.

What Does a Forensic Accountant Do?

A forensic accountant is a financial professional trained to analyze and interpret complex financial data. In a Washington divorce, they help attorneys and clients:

• Identify hidden or transferred assets.
• Trace income sources and expenditures.
• Value businesses, investments, and retirement accounts.
• Review tax returns for inconsistencies.
• Analyze spending patterns and unusual transactions.

Their findings often serve as key evidence during negotiations or at trial.

When Should You Hire a Forensic Accountant?

Not every divorce requires one, but a forensic accountant is often helpful if:

• One or both spouses own a business.
• There are suspicions of hidden assets or unreported income.
• The couple has complicated investment accounts or properties.
• One spouse handled all finances during the marriage.
• There’s a large disparity between reported income and lifestyle.

Early involvement allows the expert to collect data before it disappears or becomes harder to trace.

How They Work with Your Attorney

Forensic accountants work closely with your family law attorney to:

1. Review disclosures and financial records.
2. Prepare expert reports detailing findings.
3. Provide sworn testimony in depositions or court if necessary.
4. Help calculate equitable divisions and potential support amounts.

Their objective analysis adds credibility to your financial claims and helps prevent costly mistakes or unfair settlements.

Costs vs. Benefits

While hiring a forensic accountant adds expense, the potential return often outweighs the cost, especially when significant assets are at stake. Identifying hidden accounts, correcting undervaluation, and proving income clarification can shift the financial outcome substantially.

Protecting Your Financial Interests

High-asset divorces require precision, experience, and a clear understanding of financial evidence. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we regularly collaborate with forensic accountants to ensure every dollar and asset is properly accounted for.

If you’re facing a complex divorce in Washington, contact us for a free telephone case evaluation 425-800-0573 to discuss whether a forensic accountant may help protect your financial future.