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Navigating the complexities of divorce can be an emotional journey, and understanding the key components of a Divorce Decree Sample form is crucial for all parties involved. This document serves as a legal confirmation that the marriage has been officially dissolved, outlining important matters such as child custody, child support, and spousal support. It begins by establishing the jurisdiction of the court and identifying the parties involved. The decree specifies the grounds for divorce and details any agreements made regarding the care and custody of children, including which parent will be the residential custodian. Financial obligations are clearly laid out, outlining who will pay child support and how much, ensuring that both parents understand their responsibilities. It also touches on health insurance coverage for children and any arrangements for spousal support if applicable. Lastly, the decree addresses the division of property, ensuring that both parties know what they will retain or share as they move forward. Understanding this sample form can provide clarity and direction as individuals work through their divorce process.

Divorce Decree Sample Example

SAMPLE

DECREE OF DIVORCE

CHILDREN, SUPPORT AND SPOUSAL SUPPORT (this is only a sample, not a “fill in the blank” form)

You must prepare your own Decree

COURT OF COMMON PLEAS

DIVISION OF DOMESTIC RELATIONS

HAMILTON COUNTY, OHIO

Mary A. Smith

:

Case No. ____________________________

Plaintiff

:

File No. _____________________________

-vs-

:

CSEA# _____________________________

 

 

John R. Smith

:

 

Defendant

:

DECREE OF DIVORCE

This cause came to be heard on (Date of hearing - Month, Day and Year) on the Complaint of (Insert plaintiff’s name). The Court finds that there has been service of summons as provided by law, that (Insert plaintiff’s or both parties’ names) appeared personally at the hearing, that Plaintiff [was/was not (choose one)] represented by counsel and Defendant [was/was not (choose one)] represented and waived his/her right to counsel.

The Court finds that Plaintiff has been a resident of the State of Ohio for at least six (6) months and Hamilton County for at least ninety (90) days immediately prior to the filing of the complaint and the Court has full and complete jurisdiction to determine the case.

The parties were married in (Insert City and State where married) on (Insert date of marriage) and there were (# of Children) child[ren] born issue of their marriage, namely: (Insert child[ren]’s name and date of birth, and Wife is not now pregnant.

The Court finds that [state grounds for Divorce here] and that [Plaintiff and/or Defendant (choose one)] is entitled to a divorce as prayed for in the [Complaint or Answer and Counterclaim (choose one)].

IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED by the Court that a Decree of Divorce is hereby granted to the [Plaintiff and/or Defendant (choose one)], and the marriage relationship existing between the parties is hereby terminated and held for naught and both parties are hereby released and discharged from all obligations thereon.

DR 901 (Rev. 10/25/2012)

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED THAT THE [Separation Agreement/Agreed Entry (choose one)] which is attached hereto is hereby incorporated into the Court’s order and is a part of this Decree of Divorce as if fully rewritten. The parties acknowledge under oath that they have voluntarily entered into the [Separation Agreement/Agreed Entry (choose one)], that they have made full disclosure of all assets and liabilities, and that they understand the terms of said agreement.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the (Insert name of residential parent) is the residential parent and legal custodian of the minor child[ren], (Insert names of child[ren]) and (Insert non-residential parent’s name) shall have parenting time with said minor child[ren] in accordance with the Court’s Standard Parenting Order, a copy of which is attached hereto. (OR OTHER DETAILED PARENTING TIME AGREEMENT/ORDER)

OR

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the parties have entered into a Shared Parenting Plan which has been submitted to and approved by the Court. Both parents shall be designated residential parent and legal custodian, with parenting time as outlined in the Decree of Shared Parenting, filed herewith.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that (Insert name of parent ordered to pay child support) (Obligor)shall pay as and for the support of the minor child[ren] the sum of $(Insert Dollar Amount to pay) per month, per child, plus 2% processing charge, payable through The Office of Child Support of The Department of Jobs and Family Services for the parties' child[ren]. This order is effective (Insert date child support order begins) and is payable monthly in the total amount of $(Insert total child support obligation), including the processing charge.

This support order amount is the same as that indicated on the signed and attached child support worksheet

OR

This support order amount is different from that indicated on the attached child support worksheet and the deviation is in the child(ren)’s best interest because: (state specific reasons).

Notwithstanding Section 3109.01 of the Revised Code, the parental duty of support to children, including the duty of a parent to pay support pursuant to a child support order shall continue beyond the child's eighteenth birthday only in accordance with Section 3119.86 of the Revised Code. The duty of support shall continue during seasonal vacations. The Obligor is responsible for making payments directly to The Office of Child Support of The Department of Jobs and Family Services until such time as a deduction order takes effect. Any payment made directly to the residential parent and not through The Office of Child Support of The Department of Jobs and Family Services shall be deemed a gift and not credited to the support account.

DR 901 (Rev. 10/25/2012)

All support under this order shall be withheld or deducted from the income or assets of the obligor pursuant to a withholding or deduction notice or appropriate order issued in accordance with Chapters 3119, 3121, 3123, and 3125 of the Revised Code or a withdrawal directive issued pursuant to sections 3123.24 to 3123.38 of the Revised Code and shall be forwarded to the obligee in accordance with Chapters 3119, 3121, 3123 and 3125 of the Revised Code. A person and/or entity required to comply with withholding or deduction notices described in Section 3121.03 of the Revised Code shall determine the manner of withholding or deducting from the specific requirement included in the notices without the need for any amendment to the support order, and a person required to comply with an order described in sections 3121.03, 3121.04 to 3121.06 and 3121.12 of the Revised Code shall comply without need for any amendment to the support order. The withholding or deduction noticed and other orders issued under sections 3121.03, 3121.04 to 3121.06 and 3121.12 of the Revised Code, and the notices that require the obligor to notify the child support enforcement agency administering the support order of any change in the obligor’s employment status or of any other change in the status of the obligor’s assets, are final and enforceable by the court.

EACH PARTY TO THIS SUPPORT ORDER MUST NOTIFY THE CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT AGENCY IN WRITING OF HIS OR HER CURRENT MAILING ADDRESS, CURRENT RESIDENCE ADDRESS, CURRENT RESIDENCE TELEPHONE NUMBER, CURRENT DRIVER’S LICENSE NUMBER, AND OF ANY CHANGES IN THAT INFORMATION. EACH PARTY MUST NOTIFY THE AGENCY OF ALL CHANGES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE FROM THE COURT OR AGENCY, WHICHEVER ISSUED THE SUPPORT ORDER. IF YOU ARE THE OBLIGOR UNDER A CHILD SUPPORT ORDER AND YOU FAIL TO MAKE THE REQUIRED NOTIFICATIONS, YOU MAY BE FINED UP TO $50 FOR A FIRST OFFENSE, $100 FOR A SECOND OFFENSE, AND $500 FOR EACH SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE. IF YOU ARE AN OBLIGOR OR OBLIGEE UNDER ANY CHILD SUPPORT ORDER ISSUED BY A COURT AND YOU WILLFULLY FAIL TO GIVE THE REQUIRED NOTICES, YOU MAY BE FOUND IN CONTEMPT OF COURT AND BE SUBJECTED TO FINES UP TO $1,000 AND IMPRISONMENT FOR NOT MORE THAN 90 DAYS.

IF YOU ARE AN OBLIGOR AND YOU FAIL TO GIVE THE REQUIRED NOTICES, YOU MAY NOT RECEIVE NOTICE OF THE FOLLOWING ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS AGAINST YOU: IMPOSITION OF LIENS AGAINST YOUR PROPERTY; LOSS OF YOUR PROFESSIONAL OR OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE, DRIVER’S LICENSE, OR RECREATIONAL LICENSE; WITHHOLDING FROM YOUR INCOME; ACCESS RESTRICTION AND DEDUCTION FROM YOUR ACCOUNTS IN FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS; AND ANY OTHER ACTION PERMITTED BY LAW TO OBTAIN MONEY FROM YOU TO SATISFY YOUR SUPPORT OBLIGATION.

DR 901 (Rev. 10/25/2012)

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED THAT [Mother/Father (choose one)] shall maintain private health insurance for the parties’ child/children so long as [he/she (choose one) ]has accessible health insurance available for 5% or less of his/her gross annual income. A Qualified Medical Child Support Order [if no health insurance is available to either party, a Shared Liability Health Care Order] shall issue. This order shall remain in effect until the child reaches the age of eighteen (18) and no longer attends an accredited high school on a full-time basis unless otherwise ordered. Except in cases in which a child support order requires the duty of support to continue for any period after the child reaches age nineteen, the order shall not remain in effect after the child reaches age nineteen. A Cash Medical Order is attached and incorporated for all purposes.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that (Insert Plaintiff’s or Defendant’s name) shall pay spousal support in the amount of $(Insert Dollar Amount to pay) per month for (Insert # of months) months, effective (Insert date spousal support shall begin), payable through the The Office of Child Support of The Department of Jobs and Family Services, plus 2% processing fee. The Court [shall/shall not (choose one)] retain jurisdiction over the term or the amount of this order.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that [each party shall retain all property presently held in his/her name or possession, free and clear of any claim by the other and shall be solely liable for any debts presently held in his/her name and hold the other harmless on same] or [property shall be divided pursuant to the attached Separation Agreement] or [repeat the property distribution as stated in a Magistrate’s Decision-DO NOT ATTACH A MAGISTRATE’S DECISION TO THE DIVORCE DECREE]. (choose one method of property division)

(Insert Plaintiff’s or Defendant’s Name) shall be restored to her maiden name of (Insert name to be restored to).

[Insert name of person to be responsible to pay or ½ each] shall pay court costs.

 

_____________________________________

 

Judge

_______________________________

_____________________________________

Plaintiff

Defendant

_______________________________

_____________________________________

Attorney

Attorney

DR 901 (Rev. 10/25/2012)

REQUIRED FORMS FOR DECREE: (ORIGINAL + 4 COPIES)

Divorce Decree

oSeparation Agreement or Agreed Entry (if appropriate)  Child Support Worksheet (form 7.5A or 7.6)

 Standard Parenting Order (if appropriate- form 2.7)

 Appropriate Health Care Order (7.17 if private health insurance is available-

7.20if private health insurance is not available)

Cash Medical Order (form 7.24)

IF SHARED PARENTING: (ORIGINAL + 4 COPIES)

Divorce Decree

Separation Agreement or Agreed Entry (if appropriate)

Final Decree of Shared Parenting (form 2.3)

Approved Shared Parenting Plan

Child Support Worksheet (form 7.5A or 7.6)

Standard Parenting Order (if appropriate- form 2.7)

Appropriate Health Care Order (7.17 if private health insurance is available- 7.20 if not)

Cash Medical Order (form 7.24)

ADDITIONAL FORMS: (1 COPY)

SUPPORT ACCOUNT DATA FORM (CDR4905)

COPY OF IV-D APPLICATION

HEALTH CARE VERIFICATION (IF APPROPRIATE- FORM 7.21)

DR 901 (Rev. 10/25/2012)

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Governing Law This sample divorce decree is governed by Ohio Revised Code, particularly Sections 3105 and 3119, which outline divorce proceedings and child support obligations.
Court Jurisdiction The decree must originate from the Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestic Relations, in Hamilton County, Ohio.
Residency Requirement The plaintiff must be a resident of Ohio for at least six months and of Hamilton County for at least ninety days prior to filing their complaint.
Children Involved The decree should explicitly mention the number of children born from the marriage and details regarding their care and custody.
Spousal Support The decree can provide for spousal support, including the amount and duration, to be payable through the Office of Child Support.
Child Support Payments Child support must comply with Ohio’s child support guidelines, including the obligation to pay directly through the Child Support Agency.
Parenting Time Parenting time arrangements are required and can follow the Court’s Standard Parenting Order or a specific detailed agreement between parents.
Health Insurance Requirements The decree may stipulate which parent will provide health insurance for the children, ensuring it is accessible at a reasonable cost.
Property Division Details regarding property division can be specified in either a Separation Agreement or through direct statements in the decree.
Required Forms The decree must be accompanied by several forms, including a Child Support Worksheet and Health Care Orders, among others, as specified in the sample.

Guidelines on Utilizing Divorce Decree Sample

Filling out the Divorce Decree Sample form requires attention to detail and accuracy. This process involves several important steps that will guide you through the completion of the form. The information you provide will be critical in the court's final decision regarding your divorce. In the next steps, you'll follow a structured approach to ensure all necessary information is added correctly.

  1. Begin by entering the date of the hearing in the designated area (Month, Day, Year).
  2. Insert the plaintiff's name where it indicates “Complaint of (Insert plaintiff’s name).”
  3. Indicate whether the plaintiff was represented by counsel. Choose "was" or "was not."
  4. Do the same for the defendant’s representation.
  5. Provide the names of the parties involved in the case (insert their names where required).
  6. Record the city and state where the marriage took place and the date of the marriage.
  7. Specify the number of children from the marriage, including their names and dates of birth.
  8. State the grounds for divorce in the section labeled “(state grounds for Divorce here).”
  9. Clearly choose whether the plaintiff or defendant is entitled to divorce.
  10. Indicate if a Separation Agreement or Agreed Entry is incorporated in the order.
  11. Insert the residential parent’s name and the names of the children to clarify custodial arrangements.
  12. Provide the name of the non-residential parent and specify the parenting time agreement, if applicable.
  13. Fill in the name of the parent required to pay child support and specify the amount payable each month.
  14. Indicate the effective date for the child support order and provide the total child support obligation.
  15. Choose between confirming that the support amount matches or deviates from the attached worksheet, and provide reasons for any deviation.
  16. Complete the details around health insurance obligations under the given section.
  17. Insert the spousal support amount, the payment duration, and the effective start date of payments.
  18. Decide on the method of property division, providing all relevant details as required.
  19. If applicable, enter the name to be restored to for the plaintiff.
  20. Sign and date the document appropriately, including the judge's signature section.

Once you have completed the form, it is essential to gather all required additional documents to accompany your Divorce Decree Sample form. Preparing these additional forms is crucial for ensuring the court processes your case smoothly.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is a Divorce Decree Sample form?

A Divorce Decree Sample form is a template that outlines the terms and conditions resulting from a divorce. It is essential to note that this is not a fill-in-the-blank form, but rather a detailed example of how a divorce decree can be structured. This sample includes sections on child custody, support obligations, and spousal support, among other important aspects. Preparing your own decree, tailored to your specific situation, is necessary to ensure it adequately reflects the agreements between both parties.

Can the Divorce Decree Sample form be used as a legal document?

This sample form is not intended for direct legal use. Instead, it serves as a guide to help you understand how a divorce decree is organized and what information is typically included. To create a legally binding divorce decree, it is crucial to draft your own document, incorporating your specific circumstances and agreements reached during your divorce proceedings. Consulting with a legal professional is recommended to ensure all necessary legal standards are met.

What information is required to fill out the Divorce Decree?

When preparing your Divorce Decree, several key pieces of information will be necessary. This includes details such as your name and the respondent’s name, the date of the hearing, the grounds for divorce, child names and dates of birth, and specific terms regarding custody and child support. Additionally, you will need to choose how property will be divided and whether spousal support will be paid. Ensure that all pertinent details are accurate and complete to reflect your understanding of the agreements.

How is child support determined in the Divorce Decree Sample form?

The child support amount specified in the Divorce Decree Sample form is intended to be an example. In practice, the court will establish child support obligations based on guidelines which usually consider both parents' income and the needs of the child. Typically, the form will include a section outlining the specific amount to be paid monthly, the duration of payments, and details on how the payments are to be processed. It’s important to be precise and transparent in reporting financial information to determine a fair and adequate support amount.

What should I do if I disagree with the terms outlined in the Divorce Decree Sample form?

If you find that you disagree with one or more terms highlighted in the sample form, it is essential to address these concerns during your divorce negotiations. Open communication with your spouse or legal representative can help facilitate discussions on contentious issues like custody and support. Reaching a mutual agreement is often preferable, but if necessary, the court can intervene to make a ruling that considers the best interests of all parties involved, especially the children.

How long does it take for a Divorce Decree to become final?

The duration for a Divorce Decree to become final can vary significantly based on state regulations and the complexity of the case. In Hamilton County, Ohio, once a hearing takes place and the judge issues the decree, it typically becomes effective immediately. However, any waiting period for the divorce to finalize, as mandated by state law, will apply. Both parties may have a specified period within which they can contest terms before the decree is finalized.

What happens if one party fails to comply with the Divorce Decree?

If a party fails to comply with the terms of the Divorce Decree, the other party can seek enforcement through the court. This might include actions to address non-payment of child or spousal support or failure to adhere to custody arrangements. The court has the authority to enforce its rulings and may impose penalties on the non-compliant party, including fines or even jail time in severe cases. It underscores the importance of following the decree to avoid legal complications.

Common mistakes

Filling out a Divorce Decree Sample form can be challenging, and many individuals unknowingly make mistakes that can affect their case. Understanding these common pitfalls can help ensure accuracy and avoid unnecessary delays.

One frequent mistake is failing to provide accurate personal information. It’s crucial to double-check that the names, addresses, and case numbers are correct, as missing or incorrect details can lead to complications in the process. Ensure that you spell names correctly and use the full legal names as they appear on official documents.

Another issue arises when individuals neglect to specify the grounds for divorce. Clearly stating the reason for the divorce is essential, as this establishes the legal basis for the request. Omitting this information can cause confusion and may result in the court rejecting the decree or requiring additional documentation.

In addition, some people overlook the importance of identifying child support obligations. Detailed and accurate reporting of child support amounts, including processing charges, is necessary. Ensure that these amounts are consistent with any attached child support worksheets. Failure to do this can lead to discrepancies that complicate enforcement later.

Another common error involves misunderstanding residential parent designation. Clearly stating who is the residential parent and legal custodian of the children helps eliminate ambiguity. Mislabeling or failing to provide this information can cause disputes over custody and parenting time.

Not addressing the issues surrounding spousal support can also create difficulties. It is vital to outline the spousal support terms, including the amount, duration, and when payments begin. Be sure to select the correct options regarding whether the court retains jurisdiction over spousal support amounts and duration.

Some individuals forget to incorporate supporting documents, such as the Separation Agreement or the Child Support Worksheet, into the decree. The court often requires these documents to fully understand the agreements between parties. Neglecting to attach required paperwork can slow down the approval of the decree.

Another area of concern is failing to specify property division accurately. Whether property is retained, divided, or disclosed needs to be clearly stated, avoiding vague descriptions. This clarity ensures that both parties understand their rights to property post-divorce.

Finally, not completing additional required forms can lead to delays in finalizing the divorce. Every jurisdiction may have specific forms that accompany the Divorce Decree, and forgetting these can result in a returned submission. Always verify that you have submitted all necessary documentation for your case.

Documents used along the form

In addition to the Divorce Decree Sample form, several other documents may be necessary to finalize a divorce and ensure that all legal aspects are addressed thoroughly. Below is a list of these important forms, along with a brief description of each.

  • Separation Agreement or Agreed Entry: This document outlines the terms agreed upon by both parties regarding property division, spousal support, and other relevant issues. It becomes part of the divorce decree.
  • Child Support Worksheet (Form 7.5A or 7.6): This form calculates child support obligations based on the income of both parents and the needs of the child(ren). It is essential for establishing an official support amount.
  • Standard Parenting Order (Form 2.7): This form lays out the custody arrangement and visitation schedule for the children. It provides clarity for both parents on parenting time and responsibilities.
  • Health Care Order (Forms 7.17 or 7.20): Depending on availability, this order addresses health insurance coverage for the children, ensuring necessary medical care is correctly arranged post-divorce.
  • Cash Medical Order (Form 7.24): This document specifies any additional costs related to the children's medical expenses that are not covered by insurance, ensuring both parents are accountable.
  • Final Decree of Shared Parenting (Form 2.3): If shared parenting is established, this decree formalizes the parenting plan approved by the court and outlines each parent's rights and responsibilities.
  • Approved Shared Parenting Plan: This comprehensive plan created by both parents outlines how they will share parenting duties and responsibilities, enhancing communication and cooperation.
  • Support Account Data Form (CDR4905): This form collects relevant information for tracking child support payments and ensuring compliance from both parties.
  • Health Care Verification (Form 7.21): If applicable, this document verifies that adequate health insurance is provided for the children, confirming that their medical needs are adequately addressed.

These documents work in conjunction with the Divorce Decree to facilitate a smoother transition for all parties involved. Ensuring that each form is properly completed and submitted can help avoid misunderstandings and disputes in the future.

Similar forms

  • Marriage Certificate: Similar to the Divorce Decree, a marriage certificate is a legal document that establishes the existence of a marriage. Both documents provide important information such as names, dates, and locations pertinent to the couple. However, while the marriage certificate marks the start of a legal contract, the divorce decree formally ends it.

  • Separation Agreement: This document outlines the terms of a couple's separation before a divorce is finalized. Like the Divorce Decree, it includes agreements on child custody and financial responsibilities. Both documents are legally binding, and the separation agreement may be incorporated into the divorce decree, guiding the final terms of the divorce.

  • Child Custody Agreement: This agreement focuses specifically on the rights and responsibilities of each parent concerning their children. Similar to the custody provisions in a Divorce Decree, this document sets out parenting time, visitation, and decision-making authority. Both ensure the best interests of the children while establishing parental obligations.

  • Spousal Support Order: This order details how much one spouse pays to the other after separation or divorce. It shares common elements with the spousal support portion of the Divorce Decree, clearly stating payment amounts and durations. Both documents serve to formalize financial obligations and support arrangements for the parties involved.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Divorce Decree Sample form, there are important do's and don'ts to consider. Following these guidelines can help ensure clarity and compliance with legal requirements.

  • Do write clearly and legibly. Handwriting should be neat and easy to read to prevent confusion.
  • Don't leave any blank spaces. Every section of the form should be filled out completely to avoid unnecessary delays.
  • Do verify the accuracy of all names and dates. Wrong information can complicate or invalidate your decree.
  • Don't use abbreviations or nicknames. Use full legal names to maintain professionalism and clarity.
  • Do attach all required documents. Ensure that all supporting paperwork, like the Separation Agreement and Child Support Worksheet, is included.
  • Don't forget to proofread. Mistakes can be costly; always check for errors before submission.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions surrounding the Divorce Decree Sample form. Understanding these can help you navigate the divorce process more effectively.

  • It is a universal form. Many believe this sample form applies in all states or jurisdictions. However, divorce laws vary widely. Each state has its own rules, so it's essential to refer to local requirements.
  • It can be filled out as is. Some think they can simply fill in their details in the sample form. This is misleading. The sample is intended for guidance only. You must draft your own decree according to your specific situation and legal requirements.
  • All aspects of the divorce are covered by the sample. This can create a false sense of security. The sample may not address every situation, especially unique circumstances involving children or specific asset divisions. You should consider consulting with a legal expert to tailor your agreement accordingly.
  • Using the sample guarantees court approval. Many assume that following the sample guarantees that the court will approve their decree. This is not true. The court reviews each case on its merits, which means adherence to the sample does not ensure success.
  • Final agreements require no additional documentation. This is another common misconception. Various forms are necessary alongside your decree, such as child support worksheets and parenting orders. Neglecting these can delay your divorce process.
  • Once signed, the decree cannot be modified. People might believe their decree is set in stone once finalized. While it is true that the decree is binding, it can be modified under certain circumstances. Changes in income, custody, or the well-being of children may warrant revisiting the terms.

By clearing up these misconceptions, you can approach the divorce process with greater confidence and clarity. Always consider obtaining professional advice tailored to your circumstances.

Key takeaways

Here are four key takeaways to keep in mind when filling out and utilizing the Divorce Decree Sample form:

  • Personalization Required: The form is a sample and not a fill-in-the-blank template. It is essential to prepare a customized Decree that reflects the specific circumstances of the case.
  • Documentation is Crucial: Several supporting documents must accompany the Divorce Decree, including a Child Support Worksheet, a Separation Agreement (if applicable), and health care orders. Ensure that all required forms are completed and submitted in the correct format.
  • Compliance with Court Orders: The obligations stated in the Decree, such as child support and health insurance requirements, must be strictly followed. Non-compliance could lead to legal consequences including fines or contempt of court.
  • Incorporation of Agreements: Any agreements made between the parties, such as parenting plans or property division, must be clearly stated and incorporated into the Decree. Both parties need to acknowledge these agreements formally.