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Question: Would you recommend going to an arbitrator to solve my property settlement as a way of avoiding court costs? My ex and I can't agree on amounts we should have for our property settlement. He is trying to take way over a reasonable amount as he keeps making up figures for everything, and I am raising our 3 children with no financial support from him. I feel I am being honest and have nothing to lose but would like to save the court costs as that is just wasted money. Has anyone tried arbitration and could recommend it - or not?

Answer: By court costs I'm assuming you mean the costs of an attorney during the negotiation process before the writing of the stipulation and separation agreement? Correct? I would recommend going to an arbitrator to cut down on those costs. Understand, however, that an arbitrator is not going to give you legal counsel or look out for your best interests. Their only job is to help you two get to some common ground on the issues, so it could end up being a waste of time if he's not willing to budge. There's nothing that replaces good legal counsel. Unfortunately, there aren't many attys that are willing to forgo higher retainers to just help someone out. Either way you decide to go, however, an atty will need to be contacted to draft or review your stip. If you choose to forgo this and just type one up with your husband, then you could hurt yourself in the long run especially with kids involved. I would suggest that see the arbitrator and find out if there is a compromise in there somewhere. Have your husband retain counsel and draft the stip (so that he pays for it and you don't). You then should retain counsel to review the document and check to make sure that it's fitting to your needs and that there are no problems or loopholes in the agreement that could present a problem in the future. That should be all that you need as far as legal services. His atty will draft the other necessary court papers and you can also sign a waiver so that you don't have to show up for the final decree entry hearing. All of your interests will be covered in the stip so you're covered at this point. Ultimately, divorces aren't cheap for a reason. You've put your lives together and made expensive little investments (your children) so it's worth it to spend some money or take a loan for the dissolution of the marriage. Protect yourself now, be happier later. Good luck to you!

 


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