Settlements in courtroom negotiations in front of the judge are rare. To draft a divorce agreement amicably, most couples attempt to resolve issues regarding asset division, child custody, pet custody, spousal support, etc., outside of court.
If you are doing this, you are making the right decision, and we are here to support you throughout this process. You should get legal advice to fully comprehend legal matters, and we have also put together a list of helpful tips to help you successfully negotiate a divorce settlement.
5 Tips For Negotiation In Divorce Settlement
- Understand the facts
Present your case with facts based on legal knowledge since the best way to convince anyone about the division of valuable holdings is by explaining the facts. This will develop trust between you and your spouse, which will further increase the transparency.
For example, During the division of property, present your property based on separate and community property, along with proofs. Knowing facts will also keep you safe from any cheating your spouse might think of doing with you by hiding important assets from you, considering them non-divisible.
- Be ready to compromise
Compromise is required to reach a mutual agreement since no one wants to settle for less. Therefore, consider the wants of your spouse and make a deal to negotiate equally in cases like debt division, child custody, spousal pension, etc. This will minimize the time consumption of your divorce by avoiding trials and mediation.
- Maintain a respectful tone
When you are negotiating with your spouse, it is common to have disputes, but make sure you maintain a respectful tone throughout this process. Since ugly arguments with your spouse can turn your uncontested divorce into a contested divorce, increasing the time and money consumption. Furthermore, a respectful tone can help you and your spouse understand each other’s needs and come to a settlement more easily.
- Communication is the key
Communicating with your spouse throughout the divorce process plays a crucial role in landing a settlement. The talk between you and your spouse fills the emotional gap between the two of you and helps you understand each other’s sentiments. It also avoids the need for a mediator and shortens the divorce process.
- Do not stretch the topic
If your negotiations are agreeing in the early stages of discussion, then do not stretch the negotiation more.
The first few offers in the discussion can be generous, and stretching them more will give time to both parties to think of a better outcome for themselves. This will make the negotiation longer and lead to selfish terms and conditions later.
