Business, Estates and Practical Questions
Can divorcing parties use Knox as neutral custody for valuables?
The short answer
Divorcing or separating parties can sometimes agree to place disputed valuables in neutral custody, so that neither can remove them until the matter is settled. This generally works only if both parties sign clear instructions, often with a joint-access requirement, and accept that release will follow a further joint instruction or a court order. Joint or dual-control access can be requested from Knox and is considered case by case.
What neutral custody means
Neutral custody means placing assets with an independent party who holds them under agreed instructions and does not take sides. During a divorce or separation, it can stop jewellery, coins, documents or heirlooms from being sold, hidden or removed while ownership and division are negotiated or decided. The custodian does not decide who owns the items; it only follows the instructions it has accepted.
How a neutral arrangement generally works
- Both parties, usually through their attorneys, agree in writing which items will be stored and on what terms.
- The storage arrangement is set up with joint access, so neither party can open it or remove items alone.
- The items are listed and, ideally, photographed in the presence of both parties or their representatives.
- Release follows a joint written instruction, a signed settlement agreement or a court order.
What depends on Knox and what depends on the parties
Knox decides whether it can offer a joint or dual-control arrangement, the verification it needs and how instructions must be given. The First and Second Authorised Persons have full control of the box, including adding further authorised people. A Third and Fourth Authorised Person can access the box but cannot change the arrangement. An admin fee applies for each person added beyond the first two, and everyone must complete Knox's identification checks. The parties' circumstances matter just as much: the matrimonial property system that applies to the marriage, whether any item is separately owned, whether an interim court order is in place and whether both parties are willing to sign joint instructions. A custodian cannot act as mediator, valuer or judge.
What to do next
Discuss the proposed arrangement with your attorney first and agree the wording with the other party. Then contact Knox to confirm whether a joint arrangement can be set up, what documents both parties need and how a court order or change of instruction would be handled.
How Knox handles this
Ready for the next step?
Speak to the Knox team about your situation. They will confirm current pricing, availability and requirements before you decide.
