Practice point: A stipulation of settlement which is incorporated but not merged into a judgment of divorce retains the character of an independent contract and survives as a basis for suit. When the terms of such a stipulation are clear and unambiguous, the general rule is that the intent of the parties is to be found within the four corners of the agreement, and not from extrinsic evidence,
Student note: Whether an agreement is ambiguous is a question of law for the courts.
Case: Leibowitz v. Leibowitz, NY Slip Op 06475 (2d Dep't October 5, 2016)
Here is the decision.
Tomorrow's issue: A shareholder's right to inspect the books and records.
