Benefits of a Dissolution Versus a Divorce

If you are separating and trying to decide on the next best step, consider the benefits of a dissolution versus a traditional divorce.

Think of a dissolution as a way to dissolve your marriage. Not everyone qualifies for a dissolution so make sure and ask your attorney if that is a viable option for you (if it is, and your attorney has not already suggested it, you may want a new attorney). A dissolution is actually an agreement between both parties who are ready to dissolve their marriage. You both come together and decide what is a fair split of all of your assets, debt, and even the care of your children (if you have any). If you both can agree and negotiate on things a dissolution can save you time and money!

Because you aren't fighting, both parties can use the same attorney for a dissolution. Dissolutions cost a ton less than divorces! For a flat fee, generally less than $1,000, an attorney will draw up all the papers and file everything that you need. For a traditional divorce you would most likely have to pay your attorney a down payment or credit toward your bill and then they will charge you for time spent on your case. This down payment alone can be more than the cost of a dissolution!

The key to being able to have a dissolution is that you both must agree on how your assets are going to be divided. Instead of going before a judge (and him awarding everything to your ex), in a dissolution you two are working amongst yourselves to decided how to divide everything fairly. If you believe your soon to be ex would be willing to negotiate with you, sit them down to talk about the benefits of a dissolution. If you get a divorce, your lawyer will have to higher an appraiser to appraise the value of everything you own (you can't figure out how much half of your house is until you know how much it is really worth). Then your partner's attorney will do the same- higher a different appraiser to appraise the same property to make sure there is an accurate and fair price on everything you own. See how expensive this can become? Not to mention long and drawn out! If you are looking for a simple and quick way to end your marriage, talk to your partner about the benefits of a dissolution and see if you can work things out like two civilized adults.