In divorce proceedings and commercial disputes, the accurate identification and valuation of assets is fundamental to achieving a fair outcome. Yet it is surprisingly common for one party to attempt to conceal, undervalue, or dissipate assets before or during proceedings. Professional forensic asset tracing can be the difference between a fair settlement and a deeply unfair one.

Asset Tracing in Divorce

In English and Welsh family law, both parties to a divorce are required to make full and frank financial disclosure. However, the consequences of failing to disclose are often insufficient to deter a determined party from attempting concealment. Common concealment tactics in divorce include: transferring assets to a new partner or family member; understating the value of a business through creative accounting; hiding cash or cryptocurrency; concealing rental income or investment returns; and taking on artificial debts to reduce apparent net worth.

How We Help in Divorce Cases

Towerhall Solutions works with family law solicitors to provide independent forensic asset reports that can be used in Form E financial disclosure proceedings and ancillary relief hearings. Our investigations cover: Land Registry and property searches across England, Wales, and available international records; Companies House analysis of all directorships, shareholdings, and filed accounts; OSINT analysis of lifestyle indicators and undisclosed business activity; vehicle and asset ownership checks; and banking and financial footprint analysis through lawfully obtained data sources.

Asset Tracing in Commercial Disputes

In commercial litigation, asset tracing serves two primary purposes. Pre-litigation, it helps a creditor assess whether it is worth pursuing a defendant before committing to legal costs. Post-judgement, it identifies assets that can be used to enforce a court judgement. Common scenarios include: a supplier owed significant sums by a customer who has gone into liquidation; a lender seeking to enforce a personal guarantee against a director; and a business seeking to recover funds misappropriated by a former employee or director.

Working With Solicitors on Asset Tracing

Towerhall Solutions works extensively with solicitors on both contentious and non-contentious asset tracing matters. Our reports are produced to a standard suitable for use in legal proceedings, and our investigators are experienced in preparing witness statements when required. We can also assist with applications for Freezing Orders (formerly Mareva injunctions), providing the evidence base required to demonstrate a real risk of asset dissipation.

A Word on International Asset Tracing

Asset tracing across international borders adds significant complexity. Towerhall Solutions has experience in coordinating international asset investigations through a network of trusted partner agencies, and in working with solicitors on the use of international legal assistance mechanisms such as Norwich Pharmacal Orders to obtain information from overseas financial institutions.

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