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"Kitchen Table” Settlements

This settlement method is simple. The individuals involved sit down “at the kitchen table” and work out an arrangement that satisfies each of them. The agreement can be taken to a lawyer to be put into legal form, or used to complete do-it-yourself divorce forms.

Positives: This can produce inexpensive, quick, private agreements for people who do not have children or substantial assets.

Negatives: Without the benefit of legal advice, you may not know if you are giving up valuable rights. It is also easy to “re-invent the wheel,” or make mistakes that someone with family law experience could help you avoid. People often find that if they take their agreement to an attorney, questions will arise that may cause one or both parties to change their agreement. If the husband and wife do not have equal information and equal power in the relationship, one person might not get his or her needs met.

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