A stipulated divorce is a legal process where both spouses agree to end their marriage without any significant disputes or disagreements. In essence, it is an amicable divorce where both parties come to a mutual understanding about the division of assets, child custody, alimony/spousal support, and other important matters without the need for a contentious legal battle.
Couples who pursue a stipulated divorce tend to cooperate and agree, making this type of divorce a good fit for their situation.
What are the benefits of a stipulated divorce?
For many couples, a stipulated divorce is appealing and smart. It can save money, it may resolve the situation quicker, and it is often more private. The average divorce may take over a year to finalize, and may cost tens of thousands of dollars, which may encourage couples to choose a different path.
What are the challenges of a stipulated divorce?
While a stipulated divorce has many advantages, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some couples may find it challenging to agree on issues such as property division or child custody and may need a more traditional divorce process.
What types of couples choose a stipulated divorce?
Stipulated divorces are typically chosen by couples who have a history of effective communication and are capable of working together to reach agreements on key issues, even during difficult moments. They also prioritize an amicable separation process and tend to favor a divorce process that involves fewer court appearances and less public scrutiny.
Although a stipulated divorce works for some, couples who have more complex issues might find the process of ending a marriage more challenging.
If you have questions about which path may be best for you, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.