Economic abuse occurs when one partner uses money or financial control to manipulate the other. During a divorce, this behavior often becomes more visible and can influence decisions about property division, financial support, or custody. If your spouse limited your access to money or made major financial decisions without including you, that may qualify as economic abuse.
Signs of economic abuse in marriage
Economic abuse can take many forms. If your spouse managed all bank accounts, denied you credit card access, or demanded your paycheck, those are clear warning signs. You may have been discouraged or forbidden from working, or had to ask for money for basic needs. Some partners hide assets or lie about earnings. These behaviors aim to keep the other spouse financially dependent and powerless.
How it affects divorce proceedings
New Jersey courts can consider abusive conduct when dividing marital property. If one spouse kept the other in the dark about finances, the court might grant a larger share to the financially disadvantaged partner. Economic abuse can also affect spousal support, especially when one partner blocked the other from earning income. Courts aim to help both spouses achieve a fair financial outcome.
Impact on child-related decisions
When children are involved, economic abuse can impact custody and support decisions. A parent who withholds financial help or uses money as a tool of control may be seen as unfit to share custody. Courts assess whether each parent can provide a secure, stable environment. Financial manipulation that disrupts that stability can influence parenting time and child support arrangements.
If you’ve experienced economic abuse, you have options. Courts in New Jersey understand how this form of abuse affects divorce. Collect evidence like financial records, emails, or other documents that show a pattern of control. These can support your case and help ensure a more balanced outcome.