When a couple that has been together for many years decides to break up, it may leave a number of issues unresolved. Among the most common issues is how property is divided. Many couples acquire property together, so knowing who gets what is an important part of the separation.

When couples cannot agree on these terms by themselves, they may have to turn to legal intervention. Even though these couples are not married, they may have to go through processes similar to the ones that married couples getting divorced do.

The first step in the breakup and property division is getting an experienced lawyer to handle the case. In some cases, couples can hire one lawyer to represent both of them, or each partner can hire his or her own lawyer.

In most cases, when the couple hires two lawyers, it means that the couple is preparing for a date in court. The court date will allow both attorneys to bring their clients’ cases before a judge, who will make the final ruling on property division. In some cases, it may be possible to appeal this ruling, but it is usually permanent.

Some individuals may choose to skip court and have their attorneys negotiate terms of a settlement. It is important to note that regardless of which route the couple takes, the only property that will be split is the property that they acquired during the relationship. Gifts and pre-relationship properties are usually left out of these negotiations and rulings.

Additionally, it is important to note that property may refer to material goods, finances, and land. Any of these items that are jointly owned may be divided in a settlement.