Couple argues over money

Negotiating a Fair Divorce Settlement

Nothing about divorce feels fair. It’s a hard situation to be in for everyone involved. That can sometimes express itself in emotional or destructive ways. Let’s talk about the best ways to get past all the drama to reach a fair divorce settlement. Remember, you only have to do this once. You should make it count, even if the idea is exhausting.

In negotiating a fair divorce settlement in Tarrant County Court, there may be many factors to consider: child custody, alimony and even property division, for starters. If a couple has a child with medical needs, the settlement will include provisions for ongoing medical treatment and expenses. Alimony amounts may depend on factors such as each party's income and financial needs.

Property division can also be a contentious issue, with both parties needing to agree on how to divide assets like homes, vehicles and investments. An unfair divorce settlement can occur when one party gets an unfair advantage or there’s a lack of transparency or disclosure, and the settlement should be deemed unfair if one party conceals assets or income during negotiations.

It’s important to work with experienced Fort Worth divorce lawyers like Nilsson Legal Group for a fair and equitable divorce settlement. Here are tips to help you negotiate a fair divorce settlement and move on with your life.

Preparing for Negotiations


To negotiate a fair divorce settlement, it's important to be fully prepared to deal with the complexities of the divorce. This means gathering all necessary financial documents, such as bank statements, credit reports, tax returns, and investment portfolios, to ensure both parties' financial situations are clear. Having a good understanding of both parties' financial situations will make for informed decisions during the negotiation and ensure all assets and liabilities are accounted for.
When one party conceals assets or income, it leads to trouble. Obstacles can also be disagreements over child custody or alimony. If one party is unwilling to compromise or negotiate in good faith, the process can become more challenging.

High-conflict divorces are particularly difficult, when each party takes adversarial positions and refuses to work together. In these cases, a divorce lawyer can provide legal advice, negotiate on behalf of their client and make sure their rights are protected throughout the process.

Your divorce lawyer can keep negotiations on track, address any legal issues that arise and provide guidance throughout the process.  Clients in Tarrant County increase their chances of a fair and equitable divorce settlement that meets their needs and interests working with a divorce lawyer

Prioritize Your Needs


During the negotiation process, it's important to let your priorities guide you. Determine what's most important to you and what you're willing to compromise on. If you have children, for instance, their welfare should be a top priority. This might mean making concessions on other issues, like alimony, if there are disagreements.

The key is deciding where you want to go, in an objective and dispassionate way, and then getting there. This means keeping your goals and needs in mind foremost. In the heat of the moment, it can be easy to score “cheap shots” or take things further than you normally would. Best to come to the table with your priorities in mind and your emotions calm.

Texas is a community property state, meaning that all assets gained by the couple during their marriage are divided equally, with a few exceptions, and that makes conflict likely to erupt in other areas.

By identifying what's most important to you and what you're willing to compromise on, you can better navigate the negotiation process and work towards a fair outcome. This can also help you avoid getting sidetracked by minor issues or becoming overly emotional during negotiations. Prioritizing what’s really important will keep you focused and lead to a fair outcome.

Keep Your Emotions in Check


It can be challenging to set aside your emotions during a divorce, but keeping your ego out of the process as much as possible is important. Approaching negotiations with a level head and a willingness to hear the other party's perspective is essential to reach a fair and reasonable outcome.

This can be difficult, but by remaining calm and rational, you can avoid unnecessary conflicts and find common ground. Refer to this helpful guide, or try a few of these ideas:

  • Stop, take a breath and relax your body

  • Notice your anxieties and physical discomfort with curiosity, not resistance

  • Take comfort in what you’re protecting and keeping close

  • Imagine yourself, happy, on the other side of this situation


Working with a Divorce Attorney


A divorce attorney can act as a neutral third party, helping both parties communicate effectively and find common ground through divorce mediation. Alternatively, a divorce attorney can provide legal advice and help protect your rights throughout the negotiation process. This can help ensure that the outcome is fair and equitable for both parties.

Compromise is Key


Both parties will likely need to make concessions to reach an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved. A fair divorce settlement doesn't always mean getting everything you want.
By being willing to compromise, you can avoid a lengthy and costly court battle and move forward with your life.

In fact, it’s a recommended rule of thumb that if your attorney offers you a deal, it’s probably the best compromise they can be assured of getting you. What is truly fair doesn’t always “feel” fair in the moment, because we are talking about major aspects of life here. It can get emotional in really surprising ways, really quickly. One more reason you need a lawyer you can depend on.

Nilsson Legal for Fair Divorce Settlement


Working with experienced legal professionals at our family law firm in Fort Worth, Texas, Nilsson Legal Group can help you navigate the complexities of the divorce process and ensure that your rights and interests are protected. With a commitment to fairness and a willingness to compromise, it truly is possible to reach a settlement that’s reasonable and equitable for all parties.

If you're going through a divorce and need legal guidance, call Nilsson Legal Group at (817)953-6688. Our experienced attorneys can help you negotiate a fair settlement and move on with your life. We understand the complexities of divorce and will work with you to protect your rights and interests throughout the process.

Schedule your free consultation today.