Thinking about divorce? Make sure you’re not alone

As anyone who has gone through the process knows, divorce can be one of the most devastating and difficult life experiences. The emotional and psychological pain it can cause can leave any person feeling overwhelmed and lost. And that doesn’t include the financial toll it can take, which can be equally traumatic. There is, however, one thing that can help ease some of the emotional and financial pain of divorce and help make the future a bit more certain — surrounding yourself with a well-seasoned team of professionals.

Divorces involving children and substantial assets can be especially difficult and drawn out. In order to get through the process, many people rely on the support of friends or family, or perhaps even a divorce attorney or a CPA they know. In many cases, however, that isn’t enough. Those considering or going through the process of divorce need access to an experienced team of professional advisors who can help them navigate the unique emotional and financial challenges they may encounter in the process.

Given the complicated legal matters involved with divorce, you should have an experienced attorney who specializes in family law. As such, it’s essential to be prudent in choosing your attorney, since your financial future and the future of your children are at stake. For this reason, I advise my clients to get a list of recommended attorneys from their divorced friends and acquaintances and to meet with and interview at least three of them. During the interview process, it’s important to understand each divorce lawyer’s ability, advice, and experience in handling the complexities of situations such as yours. You should also inquire about the firm’s professional fee structure.

Equally important is ensuring that you have rapport with the attorney you choose, since you may be spending a great deal of time interacting with them. Once you’ve taken ample time to determine your top candidate, I recommend setting up a second interview to ensure you’re comfortable with your decision.

You can find a plethora of online checklists and resources that can help you determine how to select and interview prospective attorneys.

In addition to having an experienced family law attorney, I also recommend making a seasoned financial advisor part of your team. The financial advisor you choose should be experienced in matrimonial matters and one you plan to work with after the divorce is finalized.

As part of the legal process of divorce, you’ll need to review your financial history and your lifestyle expenses for court filings. In addition, you’ll need guidance in evaluating settlement proposals, and may even require your financial planner to provide testimony on your behalf. A good financial planner will not only help you navigate financial issues through the divorce proceedings, but also help you manage your financial life going forward.

The implications of divorce, of course, go far beyond the financial. To help manage the emotional matters that come with the dissolution of a marriage, I recommend working with a therapist experienced in separation and divorce.

There’s no question that the process of going through a divorce may be one of the most trying times in your life. However, if you can build an experienced team of professionals based on your unique situation and needs, you can ease some of the financial and emotional strains that come with divorce.

Working alongside a financial professional can help you navigate the future and reach your potential. To learn how our Wealth Advisors can help you, please call 1.877.670.5400, visit us online, or visit your nearest Citizens branch.