Filing for divorce is not a decision that anyone should take lightly. If you’re unhappy or unsafe in your marriage, though, divorce may be the answer.  If those who are considering divorce realized how much control they had over the proceedings—as long as they're willing to compromise—they might have filed a long time ago. The “horror stories” you hear about contentious divorces and massive settlements are outliers. In reality, most couples can agree upon a fair arrangement without going to trial, and they can implement this arrangement by drafting a separation agreement with the help of a divorce attorney.

Understanding the Terms of a Separation Agreement 

In the state of Georgia, a separation agreement is a contract that both spouses sign upon ending their marriage. The terms of the agreement resolve issues regarding shared assets and liabilities, child custody, living arrangements, and financial support of children and, in some cases, a financially needy spouse. Couples who can agree on all essential terms are said to have an uncontested divorce, which means they do not have to go to trial over the issues addressed in the document. As long as the agreement is reasonable, the court should approve it, and its terms will become legally binding. 

Understanding the Benefits of a Separation Agreement

Couples who draft a separation agreement may not even have to appear in court, depending on the jurisdiction, although a judge must sign off on the document before a divorce is official.  Even if a court appearance is required with a separation agreement, it is usually very short, and only one spouse is required to attend.  This is perhaps the single greatest advantage of creating a separation agreement with the help of a divorce attorney. By compromising to avoid having to go to trial, divorcing couples can essentially streamline the proceedings and save themselves a considerable amount of time and money. 

If you and your spouse want to draft a separation agreement in Georgia, turn to a divorce attorney at NMS Law Firm. Based in Toccoa, Nina M. Svoren has been helping clients resolve complicated legal disputes for more than 25 years. With a focus on family law, her areas of expertise include child custody and visitation, child support, property division, and all other issues involved in the dissolution of a marriage. Visit the practice online to learn how her firm can help with your separation agreement, or call (706) 282-4696 to schedule an initial consultation with a divorce attorney today.