It is a breath of fresh air when partners and parents come together and work things out, agree, balance the overall interests. 

At the beginning or the early stages of a relationship, partners are happy, have similar interests and are best to plan for the future. Much like making a will, creating a marriage contract or cohabitation agreement can ensure that, in the event of a breakdown of the relationship, the parties can separate with ease. 

At the time of separation, having an honest discussion about the issues that need to be resolved can save much time, effort and cost. In addition, it can help reduce the emotional toll of the breakdown of the relationship. 

If the parties can come to a separation agreement on children, legal and financial issues, then proceed to a lawyer, costs will be minimal. 

It always makes me smile when I see parties who have come to an agreement by being reasonable, flexible and putting the overall interest of making an agreement above their individual emotions. 

These families are more likely to live “happily ever after” by moving on with the new version of their lives.  I often recommend that these parties do seminars for others or simply spread the word.