Divorce is a challenging process that can significantly impact the financial and emotional stability of both spouses. As a family mediator in San Diego, I understand the importance of addressing the financial aspects of a divorce thoroughly. By using my role as a mediator with expertise as a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®), I can provide invaluable support to divorcing couples in ensuring their financial well-being during and after the divorce process.
Assessing Financial Assets and Liabilities
As a trained CDFA®, my first task as your divorce mediator is to thoroughly evaluate the financial landscape of the divorcing couple. This includes identifying the assets, such as property, investments, retirement accounts, and businesses. As well as, determining if we need outside valuation of any of the assets – typically a business, unvested RUS’s or real property. Additionally, I help identify and understand the extent of liabilities, including debts, mortgages, and loans. This comprehensive assessment forms the foundation for making informed decisions about the division of assets and debts.
Developing a Realistic Budget
Divorce often brings about significant changes in financial circumstances. To facilitate effective decision-making, I assist couples in developing a realistic budget that considers individual incomes, expenses, and financial obligations. By analyzing their current financial situation, I help divorcing couples understand the short-term and long-term financial implications of different settlement options, empowering them to make sound financial decisions.
Analyzing the Financial Impact of Settlement Options
Divorce settlements encompass a variety of financial considerations, such as property division, spousal support, child support, and tax implications. Having been trained as a CDFA®, I provide expertise in analyzing the financial impact of various settlement options and when it appears there is a need for a deeper dive than I can provide as the mediator, I will discuss the option of hiring an outside CDFA® that can accompany him or her through a detailed financial analysis. Through financial projections within mediation and potentially with another CDFA®, couples can fully understand the potential outcomes of different choices, enabling them to make informed decisions that align with their financial goals and priorities.
Collaborating with other Professionals
At San Diego Family Mediation Center, we understand the importance of collaboration and teamwork. Throughout the divorce process, if needed, we will work closely with other professionals, including family law attorneys and mental health professionals, to ensure a comprehensive approach to financial decision-making. By leveraging this collaborative network, I can provide divorcing couples with holistic support, addressing legal, emotional, and financial aspects of the divorce.
Long-Term Financial Planning
Divorce is not just about the immediate financial changes but also about planning for the future. As a Mediator and a trained CDFA®, I help divorcing couples think beyond the present and consider the long-term financial implications of their decisions. This may include retirement planning, investment strategies, and considerations for future educational expenses. By incorporating a forward-looking perspective, I aim to support divorcing couples in achieving financial security post-divorce.
Financial Planning
Navigating the financial complexities of divorce can be overwhelming, but with the expertise of one of our mediators at San Diego Family Mediation Center, who are trained both as a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® and are trained in the law, divorcing couples in San Diego can ensure their financial well-being during and after the divorce process. By conducting a thorough assessment of assets and liabilities, developing realistic budgets, analyzing settlement options, and collaborating with other professionals, we can provide invaluable guidance to help divorcing couples make informed decisions that align with their financial goals.
Contact San Diego Family Meditation Center for guidance on securing a solid foundation for financial well-being as you embark on your post-divorce journey.
by: Jennifer Segura
