Most cases are settled by negotiation between the couple and their lawyers. Some are settled by trial in front of a judge. However, it is normal to issue court proceeding about finances to make use of the court procedure. This allows the couple to have the court’s assistance in structuring the negotiations and the exchange of relevant information and valuations. Even when the parties agree, a short hearing is sometimes necessary to ask the court to approve the settlement and make a court order in the agreed terms.