Hey everyone, I’m working on a financial statement (short form) for a divorce case in Massachusetts. I’ve got a question about liabilities—specifically if I can include a $1,600 car repair bill from a recent accident (I reversed into my husband’s car in a parking lot 
). Would that count? Also, could I list him as the creditor since the repair is unpaid? Anyone been through this and have advice?
Yeah, you can list it as a liability if it’s unpaid. Just label it something like ‘car repair debt’ to keep it clear.
Keira said:
Yeah, you can list it as a liability if it’s unpaid. Just label it something like ‘car repair debt’ to keep it clear.
Thanks! Would listing my husband as the creditor be fine? Or does that get weird in divorce paperwork?
@Tracy
Totally fine, just make sure it’s clear in the description. Courts like transparency, so the clearer, the better!
I had a similar situation. My lawyer suggested documenting everything unpaid as liabilities, so I’d say include it.
vevosmile said:
I had a similar situation. My lawyer suggested documenting everything unpaid as liabilities, so I’d say include it.
Good to know! Did you add future expenses too? Like something you know you’ll have to pay for soon?
@Tracy
Not exactly… for future stuff, I just mentioned it during negotiations. You can’t list it as a debt unless it’s real already.
What’s the short form? I keep hearing about it but IDK what’s actually different about it compared to the long one.
Nico said:
What’s the short form? I keep hearing about it but IDK what’s actually different about it compared to the long one.
Short form is for simpler cases with less complexity—like if your assets/debts aren’t super complicated. Makes life easier lol.
@Alby
Gotcha. Thanks! I guess it’s for people not trying to untangle tons of finances then?
Not sure about the liability thing, but if the braces debt isn’t real yet, you probably can’t list it. Maybe talk about it as a future need?
Rowan said:
Not sure about the liability thing, but if the braces debt isn’t real yet, you probably can’t list it. Maybe talk about it as a future need?
Makes sense. I’ll bring it up in discussions then. Trying to make sure everything’s as accurate as possible.
@Tracy
That’s smart. Courts usually appreciate when you’re upfront about everything. Hope it works out for you!
IDK if it’s worth mentioning, but make sure your husband isn’t pressuring you into signing something that’s unfair.
Pacey said:
IDK if it’s worth mentioning, but make sure your husband isn’t pressuring you into signing something that’s unfair.
Thanks for that reminder… yeah, I feel like the agreement leans in his favor. I’m being super careful before signing.
@Tracy
Good call. If it feels off, don’t hesitate to get legal advice—it’s worth it in the long run.