Many people assume that getting a divorce automatically means a judge will decide who gets the house, the cars and the money in the bank accounts. This belief often creates unnecessary anxiety during an already difficult time.
In Florida, you do not always have to leave these life-altering decisions to a judge. Instead, you can use a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) to maintain control over your assets and your future. Understanding this option allows you to move through the process with more confidence and less conflict.
Why address property division matters through an MSA
This agreement is a formal, written contract between you and your spouse that outlines exactly how you will split your property and debts. While state law usually calls for a fair and equal split, an MSA allows you and your former spouse to customize the details to fit your unique lifestyle. This option offers unique advantages to divorcing couples, including:
- Personalized control: You can choose to keep a specific retirement account in exchange for giving up your interest in a different property.
- Reduced legal expenses: You avoid a long, drawn-out court battle, which saves you a significant amount of money on legal fees and court costs.
- Faster resolution: You finalize your agreement on your own timeline rather than waiting months for an available date on a crowded court calendar.
Through an MSA, you take the guesswork out of your divorce and ensure the final arrangement actually works for your day-to-day life.
Maintain peace and control through collaboration
Choosing to use an MSA can be effective in keeping the peace during a divorce. When you and your spouse commit to a mutual agreement, you replace the hostility of a courtroom with a focus on problem-solving. This collaborative approach protects your emotional well-being and helps you preserve a civil relationship.