What Can I Do If My Spouse Blocks Access to Our Joint Account?

Question from Simone, What Can I Do If My Spouse Blocks Access to Our Joint Account?

Answer from AI:

If you are married in community of property in South Africa and your spouse has blocked your access to your joint bank account, leaving you without funds to cover essential expenses, there are several steps you can take to address the situation.

Understanding Your Rights

Being married in community of property means that you and your spouse share ownership of all assets and liabilities acquired during the marriage. This includes money held in bank accounts. Both spouses have equal rights to the joint account, and one spouse cannot lawfully exclude the other from accessing it.

Immediate Steps to Take

1. Contact Your Bank: Inform your bank of the situation immediately. They may be able to provide temporary measures to prevent further unauthorized access and guide you on how to regain control of your account.
2. Legal Advice: Consult with a family law attorney. They can advise you on your rights and the best course of action, which may include obtaining a court order to restore your access to the account.
3. Apply for Maintenance: If you have a child in your care, you can apply for child maintenance from your spouse. This is a legal obligation, and the courts can enforce it.
4. Seek Support: Reach out to local support organizations that may provide financial assistance or food aid for you and your child during this difficult time.

Legal Proceedings

If necessary, you may need to initiate legal proceedings to resolve the financial issues arising from your spouse’s actions. This could include:

• Applying for a spousal maintenance order if you are unable to support yourself due to health issues.
• Seeking a court order for the division of the joint estate if the marriage is heading towards dissolution.

Protecting Your Interests

Document Everything: Keep a record of all communications with your spouse and any transactions or attempted transactions from the joint account. This documentation can be important in legal proceedings.

Long-Term Considerations

If your marriage is irretrievably breaking down, you may need to consider separation or divorce. In such cases, the assets and liabilities of the joint estate will be divided equally between you and your spouse.

When to Seek Legal Advice

It is crucial to seek legal advice if you are unsure of your rights or how to proceed. A legal professional can provide personalized guidance based on the specifics of your situation.

For more information on your rights and how to apply for maintenance, you can visit the South African Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.

Remember, while this information provides a general guideline, it is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Legal matters can be complex, and the best course of action often depends on the details of your individual situation.