Cryptocurrency might seem like an abstract financial buzzword—but in the world of divorce, it can represent very real (and often hidden) wealth. In our latest We Chat Divorce episode, we sit down with Jacqueline Newman, managing partner at Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein LLP, to break down how digital assets like Bitcoin show up in divorce—and what you can do if you suspect your spouse is hiding them.
Jacqueline, a leading New York City matrimonial attorney, shares practical insights from high-profile cases involving millions in crypto, and why the fear around digital assets is often rooted in misunderstanding—not fact.
Why Crypto Feels So “Scary” in Divorce
Many divorcing individuals panic when they hear the word Bitcoin—and with good reason. Digital wallets, disappearing assets, and unfamiliar financial platforms make it feel like cryptocurrency is untraceable.
But as Jacqueline explains, crypto isn’t as mysterious as it seems. “Crypto isn’t untraceable. Every dollar leaves a footprint—if you know where to look.”
In most cases, cryptocurrency can be traced through discovery—examining bank statements, transaction histories, and deposit patterns. The key is asking the right questions, and knowing what to look for.
What to Do If You Suspect Hidden Digital Assets
Jacqueline shared three critical things every divorcing spouse should ask for if they believe crypto is part of the marital estate:
- Complete Bank Statements – Follow the money. Every crypto purchase originates somewhere.
- Sworn Financial Disclosures – If assets aren’t listed, it could be perjury.
- Divide in Kind – Instead of assigning a value, consider splitting crypto holdings directly. That way, both parties share the risk and reward.
This approach can avoid the endless valuation debates that come with crypto’s volatility.
A Lesson in Financial Empowerment
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode? Crypto is just another asset—when you understand it.
At My Divorce Solution, we encourage every client to shift from fear to focus. That’s why we built the MDS Financial Portrait™, a personalized financial plan for divorce. If digital assets are part of your marital estate, we’ll help you document, verify, and protect what’s yours.
Listen to the Full Episode
Tune in to hear more from Jacqueline about:
- How one client went from $50M to $20M in crypto—and what it meant for his divorce
- Why the “sexiness” of crypto is fading in legal circles
- How attorneys can better advocate for clients facing digital asset disputes
Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Visit azure-emu-499854.hostingersite.com/podcast to stream this and other episodes.