If your husband has been spending too many late nights at work or your wife taking too many ‘girls’ trips, it may be time to consider whether infidelity is at play in your marriage. When trust is broken in a marriage due to infidelity, it often leads to the dissolution of the relationship. This article explores how an adultery investigation works and how proving adultery through a formal investigation may influence the outcome of a divorce.
Adultery Investigations in Divorce
An adultery investigation involves gathering evidence to confirm that one spouse has engaged in a romantic or sexual relationship outside of the marriage. Such investigations are often conducted by private investigators to ensure that the evidence is admissible in court.
Adultery investigations are particularly relevant in fault-based divorce cases, where a spouse accuses the other of infidelity as grounds for ending the marriage. Therefore, the private investigator cost is a worthwhile investment for those seeking to uncover the truth and build a compelling court case.
While many jurisdictions have moved toward no-fault divorce laws, being able to prove adultery may still influence key decisions on asset division, alimony, and custody arrangements, depending on the circumstances.
How Investigations Are Conducted
Common techniques of adultery investigations include:
Surveillance: Private investigators often use surveillance to monitor a spouse’s activities. This could involve tracking their movements, documenting suspicious behavior, or capturing evidence of romantic encounters.
Digital Forensics: Even in elicit relationships, people can unwittingly leave a trail in emails, text messages, or social media interactions. Forensic experts can recover deleted messages, access hidden files, or analyze social media activity to uncover evidence of adultery.
Financial Audits: Individuals involved in adultery may spend marital funds on gifts, trips, or other expenses related to the affair. Reviewing bank statements and credit card transactions can reveal such questionable transactions.
Witness Testimonies: Friends, colleagues, or neighbors who have observed suspicious behavior may be able to provide statements that support claims of infidelity.
Remember that you must hire licensed professionals to conduct these investigations. Evidence obtained through illegal means, such as hacking or unauthorized surveillance, is often inadmissible in court and could lead to legal repercussions.
Impact on Divorce Outcomes
While the importance of adultery in divorce varies by jurisdiction, it can have significant implications in several key areas:
Alimony: In some cases, proving adultery may reduce or eliminate alimony obligations for the offending spouse. For instance, if marital funds were used to support the affair, the aggrieved spouse might argue for reduced financial support upon the divorce.
Asset Division: Courts in equitable distribution states consider various factors when dividing marital assets. A court may be less inclined to grant an equitable division of assets if one spouse’s infidelity led to the breakdown or financial detriment of the marriage.
Child Custody: While adultery does not typically impact custody decisions directly, it can be relevant if the affair negatively affects the children. For example, if the unfaithful parent exposed the children to inappropriate situations or neglected their welfare, this could be used against them in custody disputes.
Emotional Leverage: Even in no-fault divorce cases, uncovering adultery can give the aggrieved spouse emotional leverage during settlement negotiations. The knowledge of infidelity might encourage the offending spouse to agree to more favorable terms for fear of reputational damage.
What to Do If You Suspect Adultery
Suspecting a spouse of adultery can fill you with anger and sadness. However, you must try to approach the situation calmly and strategically. Here are steps to take if you believe your spouse has been unfaithful:
1. Document Your Observations
Keep a detailed journal of any suspicious behaviors, such as late nights, secretive phone calls, or unexplained absences. Note dates, times, and incidents, but avoid making unfounded accusations without evidence. This documentation will be valuable if you decide to pursue an investigation or legal action.
2. Hire a Licensed Private Investigator
Hire a professional investigator who can discreetly gather evidence. Private investigators are experienced in surveillance techniques and digital forensics that can be used to track your spouse and document the adultery. They will also know how to legally obtain information that will stand up in court.
3. Consult a Divorce Attorney
A professional divorce attorney can advise you on your rights, the potential impact of adultery on divorce outcomes, and what you can do to protect your interests. They can review the evidence collected and determine the best way to present it in court to maximize its influence on the divorce proceedings.
4. Avoid Confrontation
While it may be tempting to confront your spouse immediately, doing so without evidence can lead to denial or conflict. Premature confrontation might also prompt your spouse to hide their activities more effectively. It is best not to reveal your knowledge or suspicions until you are ready to take legal action.
Summary
Dealing with suspected adultery is painful. However, before you accuse your spouse or take drastic measures, consult professionals who can help you legally uncover the truth. Adultery investigations can provide critical evidence that can save your marriage or convince you to file for a divorce. Whichever the case, having the information at your fingertips is the only way to make the right decision about the future of your relationship.