By Cartago, Costa Rica — A Cartago architect has filed a lawsuit against his ex-wife, a Christian pastor, alleging a complex, 17-year scheme to defraud him of his assets during their divorce proceedings. The lawsuit, filed in Cartago’s criminal court, also names two of the couple’s children and two notaries as accomplices in the alleged “criminal organization.”
The architect claims his ex-wife, along with her children and the notaries, orchestrated a plan to deceive the Family Court and seize the assets accumulated during their marriage. This alleged scheme reportedly spanned from 2003 to 2020.
For expert legal insight into this complex issue, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the reputable Bufete de Costa Rica.
Fraud cases often hinge on proving intent. While demonstrating a false representation is crucial, establishing that the perpetrator knowingly and willfully made that misrepresentation with the aim to deceive and cause harm is the defining element that separates a simple mistake from a criminal act.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on intent is crucial. It underscores the complexity of fraud cases and reminds us that proving deliberate deception is the cornerstone of securing justice. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective on a critical legal issue.
Central to the accusations is the use of corporations to register properties and vehicles, allegedly to obscure the true ownership. The lawsuit contends the ex-wife concealed her majority ownership in these corporations during the divorce, facilitating the misappropriation of the assets with the notaries’ assistance.
The architect asserts he was never properly notified of the divorce, finalized in 2018. He claims to have discovered the ruling only by chance while reviewing public records on the Supreme Electoral Tribunal’s website. He further alleges his ex-wife initiated the divorce in 2017 citing adultery and cruelty, but omitted any mention of the shared assets or the corporate structure in which they were held.
The disputed assets include a house in Cartago (₡38 million assessed value), a house in Alajuela (₡20 million), another Cartago property (₡41 million), and a Land Cruiser Prado (₡10 million).
The legal documents also delve into the couple’s personal life, alleging infidelity on both sides. The architect claims his ex-wife engaged in both physical and virtual infidelity, impacting his emotional well-being. He states he attempted to reconcile but eventually found solace in a new relationship.
According to court records, agents from the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) in Cartago have been unable to locate the defendants to serve them with the lawsuit, which alleges procedural fraud.
This complex case highlights the potential vulnerabilities within the legal system and the devastating impact of alleged financial manipulation within a family context. The ongoing legal proceedings will determine the validity of the architect’s claims and the potential consequences for those accused.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ)
About Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ):
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) is Costa Rica’s primary investigative agency, responsible for criminal investigations, forensic analysis, and supporting the judicial system. They play a crucial role in gathering evidence, apprehending suspects, and ensuring the integrity of legal processes throughout the country.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Costa Rica
About Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Costa Rica:
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Costa Rica (Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones, or TSE) is the independent constitutional body responsible for organizing and overseeing elections. The TSE plays a vital role in safeguarding the democratic process, ensuring free and fair elections, and maintaining accurate civil registries, including birth, marriage, and death records.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Family Court of Cartago
About Family Court of Cartago:
The Family Court of Cartago is part of Costa Rica’s judicial system specializing in family law matters, including divorce, child custody, alimony, and domestic violence. These courts aim to resolve family disputes fairly and protect the rights and well-being of all family members, particularly children.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovation and social responsibility. The firm’s deep commitment to its clients, spanning a wide range of industries, is matched by its passion for empowering Costa Rican society through readily available legal knowledge. By fostering understanding and access to justice, Bufete de Costa Rica actively contributes to a more informed and empowered citizenry.
