Marital Settlement Agreements
There are two ways that divorce or legal separation cases typically end: either the disputes are resolved at trial where a judge decides all the issues or a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) is reached between the parties. At Fair Cadora, we are upfront with our clients about which option will best fit their specific needs. Our attorneys have the skills and experience necessary to handle every aspect of your Marital Settlement Agreement.
Our San Diego divorce attorneys provide representation and guidance in the following areas:
Enforcing the orders made by the court is crucial to ensuring your rights are protected. Enforcement can range from wage garnishments, levies, liens, forced sales of property to judicial determinations and contempt. In the event that a contempt action is filed, the penalties can range from fines to jail time and can have long term consequences. If a party decides to ignore a court order, a contempt action might be required to remedy the situation.
You can be held in contempt if you:
- Division of property & high-asset divorces
- Division of retirements, pensions, and other investments
- Business valuations and division
- Division of debts
- Child custody and visitation schedules
- Child support & spousal support (alimony)
- Vocational evaluations
- Income available for support analysis
Trial Should Be Your Last Option
In general, one attorney will draw up the Marital Settlement Agreement once the issues have been decided. The agreement will then go to the opposing party’s attorney for review and any necessary revisions. If an agreement cannot be agreed upon, your case may need to go to trial and be presented before a family law judge. Going to trial can be extremely expensive and emotionally draining. It is also often unnecessary. The vast majority of divorce and legal separation cases settle at some stage of the process before reaching the courtroom. An attorney that can negotiate on your behalf and protect your interest can assist you with resolving your case quickly and economically.
Experienced, Professional, Confident
At Fair Cadora, we have negotiated and drafted hundreds of divorce and family law settlement agreements and can guide you through the process. Let one of our experienced family law attorneys draft your agreement and negotiate terms with opposing counsel on your behalf. Divorce is already a difficult process to undergo, but you don’t have to go through this alone. Our compassionate legal team is here to assist you in your time of need.
