Negotiation Tactics During Uncontested Divorces in Atlanta

The phrase “uncontested divorce” is slightly misleading. Even if you successfully navigate alternative dispute resolution (ADR), there will likely be many disagreements or “contests” before you create your divorce agreement. Negotiations can be tense, stressful, and emotional – especially if you’re navigating a high-stakes, high-net-worth divorce. In these situations, effective negotiation tactics can be crucial. Can an experienced uncontested divorce lawyer in Atlanta help you execute these tactics?

Using Leverage During Divorce Negotiations in Atlanta 

One of the most obvious strategies during divorce negotiations is the use of “leverage.” You can use this strategy effectively if you figure out what your ex wants or needs during the negotiations. For example, your ex might want something specific, like a family heirloom, a yacht, or a vacation home. If you know that this asset is particularly important to your ex, you can use this as leverage to get the things you want most.

Sometimes, spouses care the most about privacy. They may be worried about embarrassing details going public, such as the existence of an extramarital affair. Perhaps they don’t want the public to find out about their debts or business activities. Public trials can share this sensitive information, and you can use your ex’s need for confidentiality as leverage. Your ex might be willing to make all kinds of concessions to avoid unwanted publicity. This is particularly true for business leaders, celebrities, and public figures.

Consider Asset Trades and Buyouts 

More flexible deals might be possible during an uncontested divorce, and this is something you should take full advantage of during ADR. For example, you might choose to “trade” assets instead of dividing everything down the middle. This can allow you to keep hold of assets instead of selling them and dividing the proceeds.

For example, you both might want to preserve a number of rental units that currently house paying tenants. If the family estate holds one rental property, one spouse might choose to take it in exchange for something else of equal value. This might be a share in the family home, a number of vehicles, or a stock portfolio.

A buyout is an even simpler deal that allows one spouse to walk away with a specific asset. Instead of trading another asset worth 50% of its value, the spouse simply pays their ex a cash buyout. This can simplify property division, but only if one spouse has the necessary cash to fund the buyout.

Can a Divorce Lawyer in Atlanta Help Me Negotiate Effectively? 

A divorce lawyer in Atlanta may be able to help you execute various negotiation strategies during an uncontested divorce. Online research is a positive first step, and it may provide you with a basic rundown of how these negotiations work. However, the most fitting negotiation strategies must target your specific needs and priorities. A direct discussion with Buckhead Family Law could help you plan ahead, so consider contacting us today.

Sources: 

americanbar.org/groups/dispute_resolution/resources/overview/

journals.law.harvard.edu/hnlr/wp-content/uploads/sites/91/19HarvNegotLRev69-Kirgis.pdf