By Duncan E. White, Owner
Inkpointe Divorce Solutions, LLC

One of the most important aspects of divorce is the settlement agreement, which outlines the terms of the divorce and the division of assets and liabilities. However, how do you know if your divorce settlement is any good? Before your sign, here are some factors to consider:

Fairness

A good settlement agreement should be fair to both parties. This means that each spouse should receive a fair share of assets and liabilities based on their contribution to the marriage. It should also consider factors such as income, earning potential, and the needs of any children involved.

Future financial freedom

The agreement should also help work toward the financial independence of each party in the future. This includes factors such as spousal support, child support, and the division of assets such as retirement accounts and property.

Legal validity

Obviously, any agreement should be legally valid and enforceable. It should be reviewed and approved by a family law attorney to ensure that it meets all legal requirements and protects the interests of both parties.

Flexibility

A good settlement agreement should also be flexible enough to accommodate changes in the future. This includes provisions for modifications to support orders and child custody arrangements.

Emotional satisfaction

While not a legal requirement, emotional satisfaction is also an important factor to consider. A good settlement agreement should provide a sense of closure and enable both parties to move on with their lives.

If you are unsure if your settlement agreement is any good, it is important to seek the advice of a family law attorney regarding the legal issues at play and a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) to have the financial details reviewed. They can review the agreement and provide guidance on whether it meets your needs and protects your interests. It is better to take the time to ensure that your settlement agreement is fair and equitable than to regret it later on.

Afterall, you only get one shot at getting it right!