To document and respond effectively to suspicious or unreasonable financial demands from an ex-partner, follow these key steps:

1. Document All Communications and Demands

• Keep detailed records of all financial demands, including dates, amounts, and the context in which they were made.
• Save all written communications such as emails, text messages, letters, or social media messages.
• Note any verbal demands in a journal or log immediately after they occur, including what was said and any witnesses present.

2. Request Full Financial Disclosure

• Under family law, your ex-partner has a duty to disclose all relevant financial information related to property settlement or support arrangements.
• You can formally request documents such as tax returns, bank statements, pay slips, superannuation details, property titles, loan agreements, and any records of asset sales or gifts made before or after separation.
• If your ex-partner refuses or delays providing these documents, you can seek a court order compelling full disclosure.

3. Seek Legal Advice Promptly

• Consult a family law attorney experienced in financial matters to review the demands and any financial disclosures.
• A lawyer can help identify inconsistencies, hidden assets, or unreasonable demands and advise on the best course of action.
• Legal counsel can also assist in filing motions for document production, interrogatories (written questions under oath), or depositions (verbal questioning under oath) to uncover hidden financial information.

4. Use Court Remedies if Necessary

• If your ex-partner is hiding assets, making unreasonable demands, or delaying settlement, you can apply to the family court for:
  • Orders compelling financial disclosure.
  • Injunctions to prevent asset dissipation or transfer.
  • Interim financial orders to protect your interests during proceedings.
• The court can also impose deadlines and penalties for non-compliance.

5. Maintain a Clear Record of Financial Transactions

• Track any payments made or received related to the demands.
• Keep receipts, bank statements, and any proof of financial exchanges.
• This documentation will be crucial if disputes escalate to court.

6. Respond to Demands in Writing

• Always respond to financial demands in writing, stating your position clearly and requesting justification or documentation for any unusual or large demands.
• Avoid agreeing to unreasonable demands without legal advice.

By systematically documenting all interactions, insisting on full financial disclosure, and involving legal professionals early, you can protect yourself from suspicious or unreasonable financial demands by an ex-partner and ensure any disputes are resolved fairly and transparently.