When a couple gets divorced, many people assume the worst. They expect discord, arguments, and lengthy, expensive litigation. But it does not have to be this way. Whether your divorce is an ugly process or an easy and painless process is based largely on the intent of the divorcing parties. If you both decide consciously that the divorce settlement will be conducted strife-free, it will be so. Here are some tips to help ensure a drama-free divorce settlement.
Begin with a Baseline of Agreement
Create a list of items that you and your spouse can easily agree should be divided equitably. This list provides a road map to begin the divorce settlement process and establishes a line of communication between you and your spouse concerning the separation. Some people depend exclusively on their lawyers to communicate the terms of a divorce settlement, but the process can be completed much more efficiently if the parties are able to have a productive conversation about the division of assets and liabilities.
Create a “Contentious Items” List and Reserve It For Your Lawyers
Once you have a list of items that you and your spouse agree should be divided, broach the topic of more “controversial” assets and liabilities and create a list of those items. In order to promote a productive, efficient settlement, reserve this list for your Tempe, Arizona lawyer to handle. This will allow both you and your spouse to reach agreement on the less controversial items, which will likely be a surprisingly high percentage of your marital assets, and the remaining assets can be negotiated by counsel.
The Process is What You Make of It
As you can see, the divorce settlement process is what you make of it. It can be a quick and easy process if there is not much contestation. Or, it can be a long, contentious process if emotions are already on edge between the parties. Having an experienced Tempe, Arizona divorce attorney is beneficial if you feel the divorce settlement process will be combative, especially if the lines of communication between you and your soon-to-be-ex-spouse have already been damaged. More times than not, you have a greater chance of settling a divorce outside of court if you have a lawyer to help with the divorce settlement process.
Contact a Tempe Divorce Attorney Today
Divorce attorney Ronald L. Kossack has been representing Arizonans in divorce cases for over twenty years. In fact, he has represented close to two thousand clients and has served as the lead attorney on over eight hundred trials. To speak with Mr. Kossack’s legal team about your divorce, contact us online or by calling 480-345-2652.