Splitting up marital assets is often why it takes some couples longer to dissolve their marriages. This can be a painful and stressful process, and a divorce attorney will recommend working with your spouse to reach an agreement. Otherwise, the court will make the decisions for you. To keep the peace, below are some recommendations on how to go about dividing property obtained during the union. 

How to Divide Marital Assets

1. Compare Notes

Make a list of all valuable marital property, such as bank accounts, real estate, and antiques, as those types of items are often a point of contention. Put a star next to the assets you want, with a brief explanation as to why you feel you are entitled. Ask your spouse to do the same. After, you can meet with your divorce attorneys to go over the list and try to reach a settlement.

2. Make a List of Separate Assets

In the midst of a divorce, separate properties might accidentally be listed as marital assets. To avoid confusion, also create an inventory sheet of everything that is solely yours. Non-marital assets include any property acquired before the marriage, as well as anything gifted to you personally or obtained as part of an inheritance.    

3. Practice Transparency

You might have some property or equity that falls under the umbrella of marital assets your spouse might have forgotten about or never knew existed. Don’t try to hide these belongings during the proceedings. If the truth is unearthed later, your spouse can ask that the case be reopened. You could end up losing out in the end and incur fines for the deception.

If you’ve made the decision to end a marriage, let Donna C. Crooks Attorney At Law in Daleville, AL, work with you to hash out the details. Since 1993, the divorce attorney has been helping clients in the Enterprise and Dothan areas with every aspect of ending their unions, including working out spousal support and child custody agreements. She can also help write your new will for your estate plan. To schedule a free consultation, call (334) 598-9534. Visit the office online for more information about their services.