When examined at its most basic level, a marriage is a legally binding contract between two people. When a couple no longer wants to be married, that contract needs to be dissolved and the assets and liabilities of the marriage divided. Thinking of a divorce in this manner may make it easier for Pittsburgh couples to get through the process.
Of course, this may not be an easy task considering the fact that this so-called contract involves the deepest of emotions, which can easily vacillate between love and hate. In a divorce, however, those emotions can cloud an individual’s judgment. This could cause an irreparable breakdown in settlement negotiations.
When a business is dissolved, the parties involved divide up the assets and liabilities of the business. Ordinarily, this is done in accordance with a prior agreement. In the absence of an agreement, the parties either negotiate a settlement or ask for the court’s assistance.
This may remind Pittsburgh couples of what happens during a divorce. The prior agreement in a marriage would be a prenuptial or post-nuptial agreement that would outline how assets and liabilities of the marriage will be divided. In the alternative, the parties can amicably negotiate a divorce settlement. However, if that becomes impossible, the courts are there to help.
Viewing a divorce as a business deal can make negotiating the terms of a divorce easier for everyone involved. Remaining calm and setting aside emotions can only help the process. Once the negotiations are complete and the divorce is final, the parties can move on to their separate lives knowing both parties were treated fairly and equitably.
Source: Miami Herald, Financial advice for divorce: It’s a business deal, so keep emotions out of it, Julie Landry Laviolette, Feb. 28, 2014
