Divorce, when approached poorly, can be dehumanizing and draining for everyone involved, leaving both spouses deflated and in financial ruins. Sure, it’s a worst-case scenario, but it does happen. However, it truly does not have to be that way. Take for example two Miami socialites who recently split, making a point to do so amicably, despite the millions of dollars in assets that could have kept an army of lawyers busy for many years.
The couple, who have been fixtures of the Miami society for many years, ended their marriage of nearly 30 years after only six months of negotiating a settlement. In legal terms, this is akin to breaking a land speed record. Their estate was valued in the millions, including liquid assets, well-known real estate property, and the husband’s famously indulgent wine collection.
According to reports, the two were able to reach a comprehensive agreement after only a few mediation meetings and one court appearance for the complex estate to be divided equitably and for the two to craft a plan to announce their split without damaging the significant charity work that they have both been deeply involved in for years. It is also worth noting that the wife intends to keep her married name. If only all divorces were so simple!
Unfortunately, this experience is not shared by most couples who get a divorce. In the vast majority of cases, reasonable thinking is in short supply, and spouses are vitally concerned with either protecting their own interests or punishing the other party, which can drag out proceedings to surprising lengths. Even for those who wish to have a peaceful split, complex assets can make it difficult to determine exactly what is a fair split. If you are approaching a divorce, do not hesitate to enlist the guidance of an experienced attorney who can help the process go as smoothly as possible.
Source: Miami Herald, “Valen-timing: Miami high society couple’s divorce finalized,” Jose Lambiet, Feb. 14, 2017