A legally binding document issued by a court following a divorce, determines how the couple’s assets will be divided. This document outlines the allocation of property, savings, investments, and debts accrued during the marriage. For example, it may specify the division of a house, the transfer of funds from one spouse’s pension to the other, or arrangements for spousal maintenance payments.
Establishing clear arrangements regarding finances provides certainty and security for both parties during a challenging period. It prevents future disputes and ensures a fair distribution of resources based on individual needs and contributions to the marriage. Historically, the approach to asset division has evolved from prioritizing the husband’s ownership to recognizing the equal contribution of both partners, including non-financial contributions such as homemaking and childcare.