Can I write my own divorce agreement?

Can I write my own divorce agreement?

If you and your spouse can agree on all of the terms of your divorce, you can present your settlement agreement to the court. If the court finds your agreement is fair and in line with California law, the judge can simply approve the agreement and incorporate those terms into your final divorce judgment.

How do I write a divorce settlement agreement?

7 Tips for Creating a Divorce Settlement Agreement

  1. #1. Start with the Basics.
  2. #2. Include the Details.
  3. #3. Confirm Your Agreement.
  4. #4. Identify and Divide Assets and Debts.
  5. #5. Create a Parenting Plan for Custody and Visitation.
  6. #6. Agree on Child Support and Spousal Support (Alimony)
  7. #7. Polishing Your Agreement.
  8. Conclusion.

Does a marital settlement agreement need to be notarized in California?

You need to have your written agreement notarized. Make sure, when you sign the agreement, that you understand everything you are agreeing to. This type of agreement is often called a “marital settlement agreement” or MSA.

What should be in a divorce agreement?

5 Things To Make Sure Are Included In Your Divorce Settlement

  • A detailed parenting-time schedule—including holidays!
  • Specifics about support.
  • Life insurance.
  • Retirement accounts and how they will be divided.
  • A plan for the sale of the house.

Should I pay off credit cards before divorce?

If you have any joint debt with your spouse and you can afford to, we highly recommend paying off all marital debt, even before you draw up the divorce papers. For example, if you have $5,000 in joint credit card debt, pay it off before the divorce is finalized.

Are you responsible for your spouse’s debt in California?

In California, the community property is liable for the debts of either spouse. In fact, the community property is liable for the debts that either spouse brings to the marriage as well as the debts incurred during marriage.