Marriage is a life-long commitment, but sometimes things just don't work out. In cases where the relationship can't be saved, divorce is often the best option. However, going through a divorce can be a complicated, frustrating, and emotional process, especially when it comes to dividing assets and dealing with custody agreements. This is why many couples opt for a legal separation first and use a marital dissolution agreement to settle their affairs amicably. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about marital dissolution agreements, also known as legal separation agreements.

What is a Marital Dissolution Agreement?
A marital dissolution agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of a legal separation. It is a contract between two spouses that outlines how they will divide their assets and debts, arrange custody and visitation, determine child support, and settle any other issues related to the separation. A marital dissolution agreement can be entered into voluntarily by the parties, or it can be ordered by the court.
Why Choose a Marital Dissolution Agreement?
A marital dissolution agreement offers several advantages over a traditional divorce. One of the biggest benefits is that it allows the couple to maintain a degree of control over the terms of their separation. Rather than leaving these decisions up to a judge, the couple is able to work together to create a settlement that is fair and mutually agreeable. This can lead to a quicker and less expensive separation process, as well as a more positive relationship between the parties moving forward.
What Should Be Included in a Marital Dissolution Agreement?
A marital dissolution agreement should be comprehensive and cover all of the important details related to the separation. Some of the key aspects that should be addressed include:
Division of assets and debts. This typically includes everything from real estate and bank accounts to retirement savings and personal property.
Child custody and visitation. This involves determining who will have primary custody of the children, how visitation will be arranged, and whether any special considerations or restrictions will apply.
Child support. This outlines the amount and duration of child support payments, as well as any special provisions that may be necessary.
Alimony or spousal support. If one spouse is entitled to financial support from the other, this should be clearly stated in the agreement.
Health insurance coverage. This covers how healthcare expenses will be addressed, including who will be responsible for any premiums, deductibles, or copays.
Tax issues. This involves determining how taxes will be filed and who will be responsible for any outstanding tax obligations.
Conclusion:
As you can see, there are many advantages to using a marital dissolution agreement to settle a legal separation. If you and your spouse are considering a separation, it is important to work with an experienced family law attorney who can help you navigate this process and ensure that your rights and interests are protected. A well-crafted marital dissolution agreement can help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that your affairs have been settled in a way that is fair and agreeable to both parties.

Comment on this page