Understanding the Matrimonial Home During Divorce in Hamilton

For married couples going through a divorce in Hamilton, the matrimonial home holds a unique legal status. Understanding how the law treats this important asset can significantly impact your divorce proceedings and your future.

In this article, we’ll explore the specific legal provisions surrounding the matrimonial home in Hamilton. Understanding how these rules apply to your situation will help you make smarter choices and handle this transition with more confidence. Let’s take a closer look at how the family home is dealt with when dividing property and how this knowledge can support you throughout the process.

What Qualifies as a Matrimonial Home Under Ontario Family Law

In Ontario, a matrimonial home is defined under Ontario Family Law as the property where spouses lived together at the time of separation. This applies regardless of whose name is on the title.

The term “matrimonial home” is defined under the Family Law Act as “Every property in which a person has an interest and that was ordinarily occupied by the person and his or her spouse as their family residence at the time of separation.“ This definition can include a variety of properties such as a house, condominium, cottage, or even a mobile home, as long as it was being used as the family’s primary residence during the marriage.

One of the key aspects of a matrimonial home is that both spouses have an equal right to live in it. This is true regardless of whose name is on the ownership documents or lease agreement. This provision ensures that neither spouse can exclude the other from the home without a court order or mutual agreement.

The importance of this definition becomes clear during separation or divorce proceedings. It helps ensure that both spouses are treated fairly when it comes to the family’s living arrangements. This can have significant implications for property division and decisions about who will continue to live in the home after separation.

Understanding these key points can help you better navigate discussions about property during a separation or divorce process. It’s a complex area of family law, and each situation is unique, so it’s often helpful to seek guidance from a family law professional to understand how these principles apply to your specific circumstances.

Legal Rights Related to the Matrimonial Home in Hamilton

The Family Law Act of Ontario establishes the legal framework for the treatment of matrimonial homes during a separation or divorce. At the federal level, the Divorce Act also plays an important role in matters like parenting arrangements and spousal support, both of which may influence decisions about the family home. Together, these laws offer guidance and protections to help ensure both spouses’ interests in the shared residence are considered during the separation process.

Key aspects of the Act pertaining to matrimonial homes include:

Equal Right of Possession:
Both spouses have an equal right to live in the matrimonial home, regardless of whose name is on the title. This right continues until a court order is made or a mutual agreement is reached.
Consent Requirements:
Neither spouse may sell, lease, mortgage, or otherwise deal with the matrimonial home without the clear consent of the other. This protects both parties from being unfairly excluded or disadvantaged.
Valuation Considerations:
The Act sets out guidelines for valuing the matrimonial home during property division, ensuring it is fairly included in the overall division of assets.
Occupation Orders:
In certain situations, the court may grant one spouse exclusive possession of the matrimonial home. Decisions are typically based on factors such as childcare responsibilities and each spouse’s financial circumstances.

These provisions reflect the Act‘s underlying principle of equitable treatment in matrimonial property division. By establishing clear guidelines for the handling of matrimonial homes, the Family Law Act aims to facilitate fair resolutions in divorce proceedings, promoting stability and protecting the interests of both parties during this significant life transition.

How Matrimonial Homes Are Valued During Divorce

In the context of separation and divorce, accurately assessing the value of the matrimonial home is a critical step that requires a comprehensive approach. This process involves evaluation of the home as of the date of separation or the date that one party transfers title of the home to the other party. To ensure accuracy and fairness, legal experts, professional appraisers, and real estate specialists often play integral roles in these assessments.

The insights provided by these professionals are invaluable in aligning the valuation process with each party’s financial objectives and the equalization payment. This thorough approach to valuation empowers individuals to make informed decisions as they navigate the complexities of asset division and prepare for their post-divorce financial landscape.

Why a Property Appraisal Matters During a Hamilton Divorce

In Hamilton, engaging a professional property appraiser can significantly impact the divorce process, particularly concerning the matrimonial home. Appraisers provide essential clarity on property value, establishing a factual basis for negotiations and potentially preventing disputes.

The importance of a professional appraisal cannot be overstated. It can influence settlement negotiations substantially, potentially resulting in differences of tens of thousands of dollars. By providing an objective, third-party assessment, appraisers help establish a “common ground” for both parties, facilitating more productive discussions and fairer outcomes.

Ultimately, a professional appraisal serves as a foundation for equitable asset division and provides both parties with a clear understanding of the valuation process.

When valuing a matrimonial home during separation and divorce in Hamilton, understanding current market conditions is crucial. Here’s how market analysis helps:

Key Factors Considered:

❖ Local economic trends (job market, housing demand)
❖ Recent sales of similar homes nearby

❖ Current and predicted market trends

Why It’s Important:

❖ Provides up-to-date, factual information about the home’s value
❖ Helps make informed decisions about selling or refinancing

❖ Ensures fair division of assets based on accurate values

Benefits of Professional Analysis:

Uses advanced tools to gather and interpret data
Provides insights on the best time to sell or refinance

Helps both parties understand the true value of their property

By using these market analysis techniques, couples can feel more confident in the important decisions to be made with respect to their property. It leads to fairer negotiations and better-informed decisions about the matrimonial home.

This approach helps ensure that both parties receive an equitable share of the property’s value, based on current market realities rather than guesswork or outdated information.

Practical Options for Dealing With the Matrimonial Home After Separation

Couples have several choices when it comes to their shared home during a separation and divorce in Hamilton. Here are the main options, each with its own benefits:

Option 1: Selling the Home

What it means:
The home is sold, and the proceeds are divided between both spouses.

Benefits:

Clean break for both parties
Immediate access to your share of the home’s value
Opportunity to start fresh in a new place

Option 2: One Spouse Buys Out the Other

What it means:
One spouse keeps the home and pays the other spouse for their share of the equity.

Benefits:

One person can remain in the familiar home
A good option for families with children who want to minimize disruption
The leaving spouse receives their share of the home’s value

Option 3: Co-Ownership with a Deferred Sale Agreement

What it means:
Both spouses remain owners of the home, but one moves out. The home is sold at a later agreed-upon date (for example, when the children finish high school).

Benefits:

Stability for the children: Children can remain in the same home and school district until graduation
Potential property value increase: The home may appreciate over time, benefiting both parties upon sale
Shared responsibilities: Mortgage payments, maintenance, and property taxes can be shared

Flexible living arrangements: The spouse who moves out can choose housing that fits their new situation

Future planning: A clear sale timeline helps both parties plan finances and housing needs

This arrangement requires a detailed separation agreement covering responsibilities and future plans. It’s often a good compromise that balances the children’s needs with both parents’ financial interests.

Choosing the right option depends on your unique situation. Consider factors such as:

Your financial situation
Children’s needs
Emotional attachment to the home
Current real estate market in Hamilton

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The goal is to find an arrangement that works for both parties and sets you up for a stable future. It’s often helpful to discuss these options with a family law professional to ensure this option suits your specific situation and is properly documented.

Why a Separation Agreement Is Essential When Dividing a Hamilton Home

A separation agreement plays a key role in resolving how the matrimonial home and any related debts will be handled during a separation. This legally binding document sets out clear terms around ownership, responsibility, and future plans for the home, helping both parties avoid misunderstandings or disputes.

It may also include terms related to child support, spousal support, parenting arrangements, and equalization of property. By clearly outlining these important matters, couples can often avoid lengthy and costly court proceedings. While mediation provides general legal information and support during this process, each person is encouraged to seek independent legal advice to ensure the agreement is comprehensive and enforceable.

Using Family Mediation to Resolve Matrimonial Home Issues

A family mediator plays a vital role in the divorce process, particularly when addressing issues related to the matrimonial home in Hamilton. Mediators are neutral third parties who facilitate discussions between spouses, helping them reach mutually agreeable solutions without the need for contentious court battles. They assist in clarifying misunderstandings, exploring options, and negotiating terms related to property division, parenting, and support arrangements.

By encouraging open communication, mediators can help reduce emotional stress and expedite the resolution process. Engaging a family mediator can lead to more amicable outcomes, preserving relationships and ensuring that both parties’ needs and interests are considered.

Supporting Families in Hamilton and Nearby Communities

We proudly support families in Hamilton and surrounding communities, including:

Our secure online divorce mediation and family mediation services make it possible for couples across the Hamilton region to resolve property division without attending court.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce and the Matrimonial Home in Hamilton

What is considered the matrimonial home in Hamilton?
The matrimonial home is any property that spouses ordinarily lived in as their family residence at the time of separation. In Ontario, this can include a house, condo, or townhouse, regardless of who is listed on the title.
Does it matter who owned the home before the marriage?
No. Under Ontario law, the matrimonial home is treated differently from other property. Even if one spouse owned the home before marriage, its full value is usually included in property division, and that spouse cannot deduct its pre-marriage value.
Can one spouse force the other to leave the matrimonial home?
Generally, no. Both spouses typically have an equal right to possession of the matrimonial home until an agreement is reached or a court order is made. This applies even if only one spouse legally owns the home.
How is the matrimonial home divided during divorce?
The value of the matrimonial home is usually included in the Net Family Property calculation. Couples may agree to sell the home and divide the proceeds, or one spouse may buy out the other’s interest, depending on their financial situation and agreement.
Can issues related to the matrimonial home be resolved without going to court?
Yes. Many couples in Hamilton resolve matrimonial home issues through negotiation or family mediation. Mediation can help spouses explore options, address financial concerns, and reach practical solutions without the stress and cost of court proceedings.

Questions About Your Matrimonial Home? We’re Here to Help

👉 Schedule your free 30-minute joint consultation today and explore your options for handling the matrimonial home, whether you’re planning to sell, stay, or transfer ownership.

📞 Toll-Free: 888-779-8777
📧 connect@positivesolutions.ca
🌐 www.positivesolutions.ca

“Changing the way couples separate in Hamilton Ontario”

Author: Bev Lewis

President and founder of Positive Solutions Divorce Services®
(416)-559-5527 | connect@positivesolutions.ca | positivesolutions.ca

The information provided in our blogs and throughout our website is intended for general educational purposes, offering insights into separation and divorce processes in Ottawa and throughout Ontario. While we make every effort to ensure our content is accurate and current, it should not be considered legal advice. Although we can provide legal information to help you understand the divorce process, we recommend consulting with a qualified family law lawyer to obtain legal advice specific to your situation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in a parenting plan?

A parenting plan typically outlines the parenting schedule (days, holidays, vacations), decision-making responsibilities, communication protocols between parents and with the child, transportation arrangements, and guidelines for resolving disagreements.

How is parenting time determined in Ontario?

Parenting time is based on the best interests of the child, considering factors like the child’s needs, relationships with each parent, routines, and each parent’s ability to care for the child.

Can a parenting plan be changed after it's finalized?

Yes. Parenting plans can be revised if both parents agree or if there has been a significant change in circumstances. Mediation can assist if parents disagree on the changes.

What happens if one parent doesn’t follow the parenting plan?

If a parent fails to comply with the agreed-upon plan, the other parent can seek enforcement through family court or return to mediation to resolve the conflict.

Is mediation required to create a parenting plan?

While not mandatory, mediation is strongly encouraged as it promotes cooperation and helps parents create a plan tailored to their family’s unique needs without going to court.

Throughout the mediation process, we encourage open communication and creative problem-solving, often uncovering mutually beneficial solutions. Our goal is to help you create a separation agreement that provides clarity and stability during this transitional period, while also being flexible enough to adapt to future changes.

By choosing our mediation services for your separation agreement, you can often achieve a more personalized and comprehensive document than one created through traditional legal channels, potentially saving time, reducing costs, and laying the groundwork for a more amicable post-separation relationship.

A Separation Agreement is a legally binding document that outlines how separating spouses will divide parenting responsibilities, property, and finances after a relationship ends. At Positive Solutions Divorce Services®, we help couples create clear, enforceable Separation Agreements through mediation—without going to court.

Our trained mediators guide both partners through every topic that matters: parenting time, decision making, child support, spousal support, and property equalization. We offer a calm, structured environment where couples can resolve issues respectfully and affordably. Once decisions are made, we prepare a comprehensive agreement that can be reviewed by independent legal counsel and signed to become legally binding in Ontario.

*Separation Agreements Disclaimer

*The information included in a Separation Agreement, or other applicable documents, is purely a guide and cannot substitute for a lawyer’s skill, knowledge, and careful drafting. These documents are simply reflective of the information received from you and are an administrative service only.

Positive Solutions Divorce Services® does not warrant and is not liable or responsible for ensuring the validity and/or enforceability of any Agreement or clause in an Agreement and remains your full and sole responsibility. Full financial disclosure is a crucial element in the preparation of any Agreement. It is also critical that you understand your rights and obligations under existing law.

In many circumstances, the Agreement will be addressing complex assets and issues, such as corporations, trusts, pensions, tax implications etc. In these cases, it is imperative that the actual relevant documentation be reviewed and that the expertise of an accountant or specialist in the subject area be consulted to ensure that the Agreement properly addresses these complex assets and issues. It is strongly recommended that you retain Independent Legal Advice before signing any documentation arising out of the end of your marriage or common law relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a separation agreement?

A separation agreement is a legally binding contract between separating spouses that outlines how they will handle key issues such as parenting time, decision-making, child support, spousal support, and division of property.

Is a separation agreement legally enforceable in Ontario?

Yes. If properly drafted with full financial disclosure, signed voluntarily by both parties, and witnessed, it is enforceable in court under Ontario’s Family Law Act and Contracts Law.

Do I need a lawyer to create a separation agreement?

While not legally required, it is recommended that both parties obtain independent legal advice (ILA) before signing. This ensures the agreement is fair and helps prevent future legal challenges.

Can a separation agreement be changed after it’s signed?

Yes. It can be amended by mutual agreement if circumstances change. If there is disagreement, the matter may require mediation, negotiation, or a court application to vary the agreement.

What happens if one spouse doesn’t follow the separation agreement?

If a party breaches the agreement, the other may enforce it through court proceedings. The court can compel compliance, including orders for payment or changes in parenting time or support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a divorce in Ontario?

You must complete and file a divorce application with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. This includes submitting a copy of your marriage certificate, any related court orders or agreements, and paying the required filing fees. You can file jointly or individually.

What are the grounds for divorce in Ontario?

The only legal ground for divorce in Canada is a breakdown of the marriage, which can be proven by:

One year of separation (most common),
Adultery, or
Physical or mental cruelty.

Can I apply for a divorce without going to court?

Yes. If all other matters (support, property, parenting) are resolved and documented (e.g., in a separation agreement), you can apply for an uncontested or joint divorce, which usually does not require a court appearance.

How long does it take to get a divorce in Ontario?

Once the application is submitted, an uncontested divorce typically takes about 2 to 3 months, depending on court processing times. Delays may occur if documentation is incomplete or if the application is contested.

Do I need a lawyer to file for divorce in Ontario?

No, a lawyer is not required, especially for uncontested or joint divorces. However, it’s wise to obtain legal information or assistance—particularly to ensure your documents are accurate before filing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Domestic Contracts and Why Do I Need One?

A domestic contract is a legal agreement developed between two individuals—spouses, common-law partners, or couples planning to cohabit—to manage their rights, responsibilities, and expectations during a relationship or after separation. Common types include cohabitation agreements, marriage contracts (prenups), separation agreements, and post-divorce contracts.

These agreements help address important matters such as property division, financial support, and decision-making, setting clear expectations and preventing misunderstandings. They offer stability and peace of mind, particularly for couples entering a long-term partnership, blending families, or protecting assets from a previous marriage. Domestic contracts are legally binding when properly drafted, signed, and executed following Ontario guidelines. Investing in one now can reduce costly legal disputes and emotional stress later, while giving both parties transparency around financial and familial arrangements.

How Does the Domestic Contract Process Work?

Here’s a step-by-step summary of our domestic contract process:

Free Introductory Meeting: We’ll clarify the type of contract you want, answer initial questions, and explain how the process works.
Individual Intake Sessions: Each person meets privately with a mediator to gather personal goals, values, and relevant financial information.
Drafting Discussions: Parties and mediator work through key terms (asset protection, decision-making, support provisions, etc.), either in person or online.
Agreement Drafting: Mediators prepare a draft that reflects your discussions and intentions.
Review and Independent Legal Advice: Each person meets their lawyer to review the contract and ask questions.
Signing and Implementation: Once both parties sign, the contract becomes legally binding. We help with filing or registering it if necessary.
Follow-Up as Needed: Should circumstances change, you can revisit and revise the agreement.

This clear, collaborative pathway ensures your domestic contract aligns with both your needs and Ontario’s legal framework.

What Topics Can a Domestic Contract Cover?

Domestic contracts are highly customizable. Commonly addressed topics include:

Property and financial asset division, including bank accounts, investments, and real estate
Debt allocation, including student loans or mortgages
Spousal support terms, such as fixed amounts, duration, or waivers
Decision-making authority around children (when applicable)
Inheritance or estate planning considerations, especially for stepfamilies
Roles and financial responsibilities during the relationship
Business ownership interests or professional practice protection

We work with you to design an agreement that reflects your specific goals and realities. Our mediators guide both partners through open, respectful discussions to reach outcomes that fit your unique circumstances—whether emphasizing protection, clarity, or flexibility.

How Do You Ensure a Contract Is Legally Enforceable?

To make sure your domestic contract holds up in court, our process deeply focuses on key legal elements:

Full and accurate financial disclosure from both parties
Voluntary participation, ensuring no one is coerced
Clear and understandable language, without hidden clauses or ambiguity
Independent legal advice for each party prior to signing
Proper execution, including witnessing and notarization as required
Timely documentation, ensuring the agreement is signed and dated correctly

By following this framework, we help you create a strong, legally valid agreement that stands the test of time—and avoids future challenges around interpretation or legitimacy.

What Happens If Life Changes After Signing?

Life is rarely static—and your domestic contract should adapt with you. Whether you get married, have children, or experience a change in income, we can help modify your agreement to suit evolving needs.

Here’s how we guide updates:

We begin with a brief review session to identify which parts of your contract need attention.
New discussions follow about updated goals and circumstances.
Draft revisions are prepared to reflect those changes, with clear acknowledgment of the original contract.
Legal reviews and re-signing ensure the updated contract remains valid.

This adaptable process empowers you to maintain clarity and fairness as life shifts—while preserving the legal integrity and intent of your original agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is spousal support determined?

Spousal support is based on several factors, including the length of the relationship, the roles each partner played during the relationship, each person’s financial situation, and whether there are children. The Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAGs) provide ranges for amount and duration.

Is spousal support mandatory after separation or divorce?

Not always. Eligibility depends on factors like financial need, the ability to pay, and any agreements made during the relationship. Spousal support is not automatic and may be negotiated or decided through mediation or by a court.

How long does spousal support last?

Duration depends on the length of the relationship and the recipient’s circumstances. A common guideline is 0.5 to 1 year of support for each year of cohabitation, but long-term relationships or those involving children may warrant indefinite support.

Can spousal support be changed after it’s been agreed upon or ordered?

Yes. Spousal support can be varied if there is a material change in circumstances (e.g., job loss, retirement, significant income change). This often requires mediation, negotiation, or court review.

Is spousal support tax deductible?

Spousal support payments are generally tax-deductible for the payer and taxable income for the recipient—but only if:

The payments are made periodically (e.g., monthly), not as a lump sum.
There is a written separation agreement or court order in place.
The support is clearly identified as spousal support (not child support).

Frequently Asked Questions

How is child support calculated in Ontario?

Child support is calculated using the Federal Child Support Guidelines, primarily based on the paying parent’s gross annual income and the number of children. The amount can vary depending on parenting time arrangements.

Do both parents have to pay child support?

Typically, the parent with less parenting time (or the one not primarily residing with the child) pays support. However, in shared parenting arrangements, both parents’ incomes are considered, and a set-off approach may apply.

What income is used for child support calculations?

Gross annual income from all sources is used, including employment, self-employment, commissions, rental income, and certain benefits. Line 15000 of the tax return (previously Line 150) is commonly referenced.

Can child support be adjusted over time?

Yes. Child support is reviewed and adjusted if there is a significant change in income, parenting arrangements, or the child’s needs. Annual income disclosure is often required.

Does child support cover extracurricular activities or school expenses?

No. Basic child support covers food, clothing, and shelter. Special or extraordinary expenses (like daycare, medical costs, or extracurriculars) are separate and typically shared proportionally based on each parent’s income.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is property equalization in Ontario?

Property equalization is the process of dividing the increase in value of each spouse’s net worth accumulated during the marriage. The spouse with the higher net family property pays half the difference to the other spouse.

How is net family property (NFP) calculated?

NFP is calculated by subtracting the value of assets and debts on the date of marriage from the value of assets and debts on the date of separation. Certain exclusions and deductions (like inheritances or gifts) may apply

What property is excluded from equalization?

Excluded property includes inheritances, gifts from third parties, personal injury awards, and certain insurance proceeds, if kept separate from joint assets. The matrimonial home is not excluded, even if it was inherited or owned before marriage.

Does property equalization apply to common-law couples in Ontario?

No. Property equalization under the Family Law Act applies only to married spouses. Common-law partners are not automatically entitled to a share of each other’s property and must rely on trust claims or specific agreements.

Can spouses agree to divide property differently than equalization rules?

Yes. Spouses can negotiate their own terms in a separation agreement, which can differ from what the law provides, as long as both parties disclose their finances and the agreement is fair and voluntarily entered into.

By addressing these important legal and financial matters through mediation, couples can reduce conflict, save money, and reach mutually beneficial solutions without going to court.

Throughout the process, we maintain a neutral stance, ensuring that both parties’ voices are heard, and their interests are considered. Our goal is to help you reach a comprehensive separation agreement that addresses all aspects of your separation, while minimizing conflict and preserving important relationships. By choosing our mediation services, you can navigate your separation with greater control, reduced stress, and significant cost savings compared to traditional litigation. Positive Solutions Divorce Services provides professional mediation services to families across Ontario, helping couples in cities like Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, and beyond reach fair and amicable agreements.

Schedule a Free Online Meeting for Mediation Services in Ontario

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of issues can mediation help us resolve?

Mediation through Positive Solutions supports nearly every aspect of separation. Our trained mediators guide couples through key topics like parenting plans, including schedules and decision-making; child and spousal support calculations based on Ontario and federal guidelines; property equalization for fair division of assets and debts; drafting separation agreements; and the divorce application process itself. We also assist with domestic contracts such as cohabitation or prenuptial agreements. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive, one-stop mediation solution that helps you finalize all separation-related matters without needing multiple professionals or a court battle—saving you time, money, and stress.

How does the mediation process work?

Divorce mediation at Positive Solutions follows a structured and supportive process:

Free, joint consultation to introduce mediation and learn about your situation.
Individual intake sessions, where you’ll complete financial checklists and explore concerns privately.
Joint mediation meetings in-person or online, where we address parenting, finances, support, and property.
Drafting your Separation Agreement, reflecting your jointly reached decisions.
Legal review (strongly recommended) before signing the agreement.
Final session to outline and confirm next steps (e.g., filing divorce, implementing changes).

This approach provides clarity, fairness, and a plan personalized to your family’s needs—without court involvement.

Can mediation save us money and time compared to going to court?

Yes—mediation is typically much faster and more affordable than traditional litigation. Court cases can drag on for months or years and involve high legal fees. Mediation, on the other hand, usually concludes in 4–8 sessions over a few months, and our flat-fee packages are transparent with optional payment plans. Because you maintain control over decisions and timing, mediation allows for quicker resolutions—and avoids court scheduling delays, motion costs, and unpredictable outcomes. For many of our clients, this means saving thousands of dollars and protecting family budgets during a challenging life transition.

What role does confidentiality play in mediation?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of our mediation process. Unlike court hearings, which are public, mediation sessions remain private—nothing discussed is part of public record. This allows couples to speak honestly without fear. Mediators adhere to professional confidentiality standards, and any notes taken are securely stored or destroyed. The only exceptions involve legal obligations, such as threats of harm or child protection concerns. Confidentiality helps maintain dignity and trust throughout the process and enables more open, constructive communication.

What happens if we can’t agree on something during mediation?

While mediation aims for comprehensive agreement, it’s flexible if you encounter roadblocks. Mediators will help you explore options, break complex issues into manageable steps, or refer you to specialists—like financial advisors or therapists—as needed. If a specific topic remains unresolved, you can pause mediation or choose targeted legal advice on that point. Importantly, the rest of your agreement can still move forward while specific issues are addressed separately. Our goal is to help you reach as much agreement as possible, while respecting your unique circumstances and pacing.