The Ballpark Number: Why the Divorce Lawyer in Winnebago County IL Recommends Avoiding Generalizations

by | Aug 26, 2016 | Lawyers

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A Divorce Lawyer in Winnebago County IL wants black and white terms. They want something that is crystal clear. This avoids the potential for conflict and exploitation. It is the exact way a spouse should be when determining big financial decisions through a divorce.

Generalizations are possibly the most damaging when it comes to finances. This will put a person in a box. It also shows a willingness to be vague. In negotiations of any kind, a big flaw is vagueness. For example, someone asks “what would you take for this?” The response should not be:

  • “Well, I would take maybe $100 to $200?”
  • “I am looking for at least $50?”

The response should typically be some variation of “what do you think it’s worth?” Both of the above answers offer a range that can be worked on. No one is going to answer the top question with “Sure, I would love to pay $200.” They want to pay the lowest. It should have never been said in the first place.

Now, there may be scenarios where one has to answer, and that is okay. But, the answer should be mostly resolute. It should not offer a vague concept or range, especially in divorce. The other party will exploit that wishy-washy nature, even if it was never meant to be. They will go for the lowest. At the least, they have an idea of a range and that lack of conciseness means that it can be changed.

The “ballpark number” is easily exploited because it gives the power to the “other side.” It holds down a position. If a ballpark is provided, it has set a box around a person. If they decide that, for whatever reason, the ballpark they offered doesn’t work, they have to work backward. They already made a commitment of sorts to that “general area.” Unfortunately, it wasn’t really a commitment at all. It is a way to dart the question and resolve it later.

The better way to dart a question for later resolution is to offer no ballpark at all. The best approach is a relatively concrete and clear need, as suggested by a Divorce Lawyer in Winnebago County IL. No ballparks allowed. Visit A Law Office of Crosby And Associates for more on discerning valuable details in a complicated divorce settlement.