In California, a settlement agreement for a divorce is called a Marriage Settlement Agreement or MSA. This is a written agreement between both parties that have decided to end their marriage. Generally, this agreement accompanies the filing of a judgment for divorce with the court. A marriage settlement agreement is also generally produced after a couple participates in divorce mediation and reaches an agreement.
A marriage settlement agreement specifically states the terms of the relationship after the marriage is dissolved. These agreements can be a detailed as the parties prefer. The more detailed they are, the easier they are to interpret by a judge. Marriage settlement agreements include how property acquired before and during the marriage is to be divided as well as the ownership of a business that either party owns. It also sets forth a custody parenting plan to determine when the children spend time with both parents.
Additionally, the marriage settlement agreement includes additional financial arrangements between the parties. A marriage settlement agreement should list all of the couple’s assets and debts and other types of property and how they are to be divided.
To inquire further about more specifics of marriage settlement agreements, consult with a local family law attorney who can discuss this process as it relates to your specific situation. In San Diego, contact the Law Offices of Brian A. Victor for more information. www.brianvictorlaw.com
