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The Reconcilable Differences Between Separation and Divorce

Handley LLC Feb. 10, 2021

There is a difference between reconcilable and irreconcilable variations in separation and divorce. In this post, the emphasis is on the reconcilable ones. There are some things that need to be resolved when the relationship changes to a point where there will be a breakup and divorce, so that both parties can disentangle themselves financially and move on with their lives. It takes time for emotional disentanglement. Emotions should be deliberately guided to a cooperative parenting plan when there are children, so that the children can benefit from the attributes each parent brings to the family. You can also ask a family attorney for more details.

Negotiating finances: Information on both assets and debt should be the foundation of every financial agreement. The agreement does not begin until the required information is shared for decision-making and the essence of the assets and debt is understood. Although this takes time, a constructive dialogue is encouraged. The talks are not a zero sum game in the systems of mediation and collaborative law. Instead, the aim is to ensure that every arrangement for each member of the family is fair and realistic. There are different tools for compiling financial details. The basis for the negotiations will be this knowledge.

Compiling information: In most situations, a net worth statement is used to collect financial information. The following information is included in this form: basic family details, such as the date of marriage, the names and date of birth of each child, monthly expenditures, wages, assets and debt. Asset information includes values, title holder, date of purchase and other related information. Tap here to see the declaration of net worth commonly used by the New York State court system. In some instances, to compile information, the parties use their own type. The aim is to ensure that all properties and debts are recognized and handled. To validate and understand the details required for an arrangement, supporting documentation such as deeds, trust records, retirement statements, summary plan outlines and award letters may be used.

Separate and Marital Property: Under the law of the State of New York, separate property is usually well-defined as property attained prior to marriage and marital property is well-defined as property attained after marriage by one or both of the parties, irrespective of the name in which the property is owned, unless otherwise provided for in a prenuptial agreement. It is necessary to consider this difference in gathering information on properties as it can influence the distribution of the land.

Cash Flow/Support: The revenue and cost details would encourage a fruitful discussion about the current cash flow and the needs of each party and the children going forward. Often times, this debate acts as a reality check about what a person needs and what a person wants to move forward. When the parties review the cash that comes in and goes out, they prioritize what is most important to both of them and look at options for cash flow/support.

Health Insurance: A study of the existing provision of health insurance should be carried out in such a manner that the costs of coverage, like premiums, annual deductible rates and unreimbursed expenditures, are clearly defined for all parties. The health needs of each family member should also be checked. Upon entering a divorce, depending on the provisions of the plan, a partner may or may not continue to be liable. When determining whether to maintain coverage under a COBRA option or other alternatives that are available, a cost benefit analysis is recommended.

Life insurance: It is important to check the life insurance that is in place, including the terms relating to the death benefit, the beneficiary(s) and whether the policy is for a term or a lifetime. It is important to check the cash worth of whole life policies.

In the financial disentanglement of a partnership, there are several things to consider. Focusing on the evidence helps to keep the conversation positive so that the newly formed family moves on as a basis with a fair compromise. If you are perplexed, see us at Handley Law Center for family law attorney.

** Disclaimer: This blog article is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.