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Separating from your spouse is never simple. However, the legal process involved will be quicker and less costly if you are your ex are able to reach compromises during negotiation. Here are some big-picture items to consider as you negotiate and draft your separation agreement in Tampa.
Who keeps the house is one of the most pertinent questions during a divorce or legal separation. You may have already reached a tentative agreement on it if you’ve been living apart for a while. However, it’s important to think carefully about both who will live where and how the mortgage will be paid before formalizing the agreement.
In addition to your primary residence, you’ll also need to divide up any other properties, as well as belongings like vehicles, major appliances, and anything else that either has significant financial or sentimental value. For items that cannot be divided, you may outline in the separation agreement how the partner losing access to the item will be compensated.
Joint accounts. Shared debt. College fund contributions. Alimony. Dividing up finances is one conundrum after another, and every separating couple has unique circumstances to work through. Your separation agreement will need to touch on every aspect of your shared finances, as well as individual obligations. Work with an experienced attorney to make sure you cover all your bases and reach a final compromise each party can be satisfied with.
Probably the most emotional part of divorce negotiations is deciding on how to address the children. How will custody be split? What visitation and parental decision-making rights does each person have? Will child support be paid – and if so, how much and how often? This area will likely demand more compromise than anywhere else in your separation agreement. Be prepared to sacrifice lesser priorities to negotiate for your top priorities regarding your children.