Is it worth it?

Many times I hear people arguing about the smallest of items. Some of these have sentimental value, some are animals that both parties love, but sometimes it is just so the other person does not get the item. When a divorce is involved sometimes emotions take over and you lose site of the bigger picture. I feel it is my job to not only provide legal advice, but also to weigh that advice against the cost involved. Yes, perhaps you could get that item that you don’t want your spouse to have, but is it worth a $1,000 – $5,000 battle to get that $20 toaster? That is what I mean weighing it against the cost involved. So let’s look at a few possible situations:

(1) a clock handed down through generations on your side of the family. If this clock means something to you then it absolutely may be worth that extra cost. After all you would not want your mom or dad getting mad at you for letting this item go. So is there something else that your spouse would want in exchange that you would be willing to part with. If so, maybe that would work to resolve the issue without creating an enormous battle involving thousands of dollars.

(2) that cat or dog that has been with you both. Trust me I am the biggest animal lover of them all. I rescue nearly every animal I find (good thing my wife makes me re-home them). Would I fight about my animals? Yes. Would I have to fight too much? Probably not. While I love all of my animals there are a couple that I could live with knowing they were with my wife instead of me because I know she would take good care of them. Animals adapt to most situations and so will you.

(3) that darn toaster. Now this is definitely not something to fight over. It will cost you significantly more than it will cost for you to go buy a new one. I use toaster as an example but even the most expensive pots and pans are not worth fighting over with legal fees looming over your head.