Global News: Revenge Purchases and Divorce - Featuring Caitlin O'Garr, Shulman & Partners

Financial transparency is critical in any relationship, but when spending becomes a weapon, it can quickly lead to conflict—and sometimes divorce. In an interview with Global News, Caitlin O'Garr, Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP, discussed the growing phenomenon of “revenge purchases.” These are large, impulsive, or secretive financial decisions made out of spite or anger, often signaling deeper relationship issues. Caitlin explained how these purchases can complicate separations and why financial disclosure is essential to achieving a fair outcome when relationships break down.

“Financial disclosure is the backbone of family law… once there is a lack of transparency you don’t know what else there is.”
— Caitlin O'Garr, Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP

During her conversation with host Ben Mulroney on CTV News Radio, Caitlin shed light on the rise of “revenge purchases," instances where one partner spends significant sums of money without the other’s knowledge, often as an act of emotional retaliation. She explained that such actions not only reflect deeper issues within the relationship but can also have serious legal and financial repercussions once the relationship ends.

Revenge purchases can take many forms: impulsive luxury buys, unauthorized investments, or even major financial commitments such as real estate purchases. Caitlin shared a striking real-world example in which a spouse signed multiple binding agreements to purchase homes without telling their partner—a move that caused immense financial and emotional strain.

When these actions surface during a separation, they complicate the division of property and the negotiation of settlements. According to Caitlin, one of the most important steps for clients is to ensure full and honest financial disclosure. Once transparency breaks down, it becomes difficult to assess whether income has been hidden or whether additional undisclosed assets exist. This uncertainty can lead to prolonged and costly disputes.

Caitlin emphasized that revenge spending may also overlap with patterns of financial abuse, especially when one partner uses money as a means of control or punishment. When children are involved, the stakes rise even higher, as household finances often directly affect their care and stability.

While the term “revenge purchase” may sound dramatic, Caitlin's insights revealed that the behavior stems from emotional disconnection and resentment—issues that, if left unresolved, can destroy trust and make a difficult divorce even more complex.

Listen to the full Global News segment here. 

This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media  archive.