Divorce is rarely an easy process, but there are certainly some parts that are more difficult than others. Issues such as property division tend to be the most contentious, but there are steps you can take to mitigate any conflict and ensure you get what you need out of the settlement.
Asset division is a particularly tricky part of divorce if you do not have a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. Even without such a contract, though, you can deal with property division in a way that is productive and minimally stressful. Enlisting help from a legal representative may make the process even easier, and this is especially true when it comes to handling any of the following three difficult-to-divide assets:
1. Valuable collections
If either spouse has accumulated a collection of valuables over the course of the marriage, it can be difficult to divide them or split their worth in the midst of a divorce. You might not think that memorabilia such as comic books or stamps have any relevance to your divorce proceedings, but if they have any value at all, they may be subject to appraisal and property division.
2. Benefits and pensions
Benefits and pensions from an employer are notoriously some of the most difficult assets to negotiate during property division. If you or your spouse received benefits from the others’ employer during your marriage, you may be able to claim partial value in a settlement. Similarly, according to The Balance, you may be able to divide the value of a retirement account or pension as part of the settlement.
3. Organization memberships
You may not think that membership to an organization is an asset that would be disputed, but the fact is that this can also be an issue in asset division. If you and your ex jointly shared a membership to any clubs or organizations, the value of that membership is potentially subject to division in a settlement. It is best to negotiate this if the membership cannot be split or if it is of substantial value.
