The parties, on their own or with the help of their attorneys, may be able to agree on some or all of their issues. This agreement becomes the basis for the court's Decree, and the parties, by forming such an agreement, avoid the necessity of having a trial to resolve the issues. Especially the issues of child custody and child support, the court must approve the agreement of the parties and retain the power to make its own orders.  All states allow parties to use a written agreement in solving their case; however, the exact title for the agreement document various from state to state.  Common names used for the agreement are: Stipulation of Settlement, Marital Termination Agreement, Property Settlement Agreement, and Separation Agreement.

If you are in doubt about whether you are using the proper document, please consult an attorney familiar with domestic situations in your state.

Additional information pertaining to marital settlement agreements is unique for most states.  An attorney should be consulted as to the individual unique features of each state.