Dear Attorneys,
I’m going through a divorce, but soon-to-be-ex and I don’t agree on how to divide our personal property. My attorney told me that she “doesn’t negotiate pots and pans,” and that we may go through arbitration. What does that mean?
Sincerely,
Property Perplexed
Dear Property,
When an attorney says that they do not negotiate pots and pans, they mean that they will not negotiate a personal property division where it itemizes all your smaller personal property. For example, a dissolution agreement may itemize some furniture, artwork, valuables, exercise machines, etc. However, most attorneys will not get into the “nitty gritty” and outline all your smaller items such as cookware, clothing, home décor, etc. Ultimately, it is generally not worth it financially to have your attorneys go back and forth about something of such little financial value (although we do understand that sometimes there is sentimental value attached to the items). Therefore, when parties themselves do not agree on a personal property division, they often have to go to an arbitrator. Arbitration is binding and both parties will need to acknowledge that prior to partaking. Then, the arbitrator will render a decision with which both parties will need to comply.
Wolf & Shore Law Group is here to make your negotiations and divorce matters easier, not harder. Call us if you have any questions about how to start the process, or if you have questions even after you have started. Ever argue with a woman? Let Wolf & Shore Law Group go to work for you. Call us at 203.745.3151 or email us at info@wolfandshorelaw.com.
Very Truly Yours,
Wolf & Shore Law Group
