Can a husband legally close a joint banking account and deny the wife access to the household income, as well as food and personal toiletries?
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Can a husband legally close a joint banking account and deny the wife access to the household income, as well as food and personal toiletries?
My husband and I have discussed divorce, but we’re still living in the same house. As far as I know, neither of us have done more than discuss it. He has always claimed no responsibility for anything related to my car including gas and maintenance even though I’m the one who drives the kids to all of their appointments. He also claims that I am responsible for my own medical expenses above what our insurance pays for. In the last 2-3 months, he has added food and personal toiletries to that list. I just found out today that he closed our joint checking account and won’t give me access to funds.
Asked on July 27, 2012 under Family Law, Mississippi
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
He has done so much more that just discuss. He has acted. And now you need to get an attorney and act yourself. Yes, one party can close a joint account. It would be considered "dissipation" of marital assets by the court and held against him. You need to file paperwork immediately for temporary support. Good luck.
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