http://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/16/your-money/when-dividing-assets-the-little-things-matter.html?_r=0
In the Wealth Matters column, Paul Sullivan writes about how family members can divide assets, particularly when the relationships may be strained and it is too difficult to sit down and figure out who gets what. While the article focuses mainly on distribution of items among siblings, we find wisdom in the advice — both emotional and practical. In a divorce negotiation, there’s often sentimental value that motivates an individual’s perspective as well as protecting a lifestyle for the children. In mediation, we help parties discuss what their goals are and what motivates their decisions and preferences. Often, appraisals and financial experts bring important objective information to the negotiations, thus enabling parties to pick and choose among the items to be distributed in a fair manner, with full information and an understanding of the tax impact of each item’s value. Sullivan recommends FairSplit, a software tool for items of more sentimental value, setting in place an objective process in which everyone gets a turn. In the end, conflicts will always arise – the goal is managing them in a productive manner.