If you are exploring your options for filing for divorce, you may be preparing to meet with a family law attorney as an initial consultation step. Before you make any final decisions or proceed with the divorce filing, you should talk with your lawyer about your plans and options for some of the most heavily contested issues in a divorce settlement. Here's a look at a few things that you need to know.
Know Where You Draw The Line, But Be Reasonable
Sometimes, the hardest part of trying to negotiate a divorce settlement without facing a contested divorce is knowing when to give a little bit to the other party. One of the most important things that you can do when you talk with your divorce lawyer about your preferences for the settlement is to identify which things are truly hard lines for you and what you're willing to compromise on. Be reasonable about what you declare as hard lines, though. Remember that if you and your ex can't come to an agreement, the courts will have to intervene. Relying on a judge to settle the matter can be costly in terms of legal fees.
Consider The Financial Implications
When it comes to negotiating a settlement for your divorce, you should be practical about the costs. Remember that you're both likely paying attorney's fees, and those fees will increase exponentially if the case has to be litigated in court. Instead, try to sit down with your attorney and draft a fair and equitable division of assets and finances that will ensure that you both get your share of each.
Discuss The Major Assets
If you own a marital home or any other major assets, there are some essential considerations. You'll have to make sure that you decide mutually who will retain each of those assets or if you'll be selling them and dividing the profits. If there are children in the marriage, it's often best for consistency if one party keeps the home and compensates the other party with either other assets or a financial buy-out.
Be Open To Communication
When you're hoping to avoid a contested divorce and looking to come to a mutual settlement agreement, the most important thing you can do along the way is to be open to communication. The end of a marriage can be an emotional, stressful, difficult time, and it can be hard to communicate respectfully between the two of you. If there are communication barriers, rely on your attorneys to communicate on your behalf.
These are some of the most important things to think about if you're trying to save yourself the strain and upheaval of a contested divorce.
Contact a law firm like Mobile Divorce Law Firm to learn more.
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