SEVEN THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU DIVORCE
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Once upon a time, in the land of Breakupsburg, there lived three divorce options: Papa Bear Litigation (too hot), Mama Bear Mediation (too cold), and Baby Bear Collaborative Divorce. Let’s explore why collaborative divorce might be the bowl of porridge that’s just right for many couples.
Collaborative divorce strikes a balance between the formality of litigation and the informality of mediation. You get legal representation without declaring all-out war. It’s like having a peace treaty and a battle plan at the same time.
Unlike litigation (where you might feel like a spectator in your own divorce) or mediation (where you might feel under-supported), collaborative divorce gives you a team of professionals without overwhelming you. It’s like having a personal cheering squad, but they all have advanced degrees.
More structured than mediation, but more flexible than litigation, collaborative divorce offers a “just right” process for many couples. It’s like having a map for your journey, but you can still take scenic detours if needed.
You get the financial and child expertise you need, without the overkill of multiple court-appointed experts. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife instead of an entire toolshed – just the right tools for the job.
Move faster than litigation allows, but take more time than mediation might to really work through issues. It’s like a divorce slow cooker – it takes time, but the results are worth it.
More supported than the direct negotiations in mediation, but less adversarial than communication through litigation. It’s like having a translator for those times when you and your ex seem to be speaking different languages.
Unlike litigation (which looks mainly at the past and present) or mediation (which might not have the tools to plan extensively), collaborative divorce helps you create a vision for your post-divorce life that’s just right. It’s like having a GPS for your future, not just a rearview mirror.
Remember, like Goldilocks, you might need to try a few approaches before you find the one that’s just right. But for many couples, collaborative divorce offers that perfect middle ground – not too hard, not too soft, but just right for moving forward into your new life.
So, if you’re looking for a divorce option that’s not too hot, not too cold, but just right, collaborative divorce might be your Goldilocks solution. It might not come with a fairy tale ending, but it could help you write a pretty good “happily ever after” for your post-divorce life.
Looking to explore your divorce options including mediation? Berni Stevens, an experienced mediator, divorce coach, and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA), supports clients in mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation.
Schedule Your Complimentary Divorce Strategy Session Today!
You can read more divorce related articles, news and resources here. Don’t forget to follow along on social media for helpful divorce tips and resources!
When it comes to divorce, dividing assets can feel overwhelming. It’s also often more complicated than simply deciding who gets the dog (though let’s face it, belly rubs do go a long way!). For many couples, the process of dividing assets brings up important questions. For example: What counts as marital versus separate property? And how do you fairly value pensions, estates, or other high-value assets? These are critical decisions that will ultimately shape your financial future, so they require a well-informed and thoughtful approach.
At TruNorth Divorce, we specialize in guiding you through this complex process. Our comprehensive services include divorce financial analysis, mediation, and collaborative divorce, each one focused on making sure that asset division is handled with the utmost expertise and fairness. Whether you’re managing high-net-worth estates or working through the intricate details of a tax-optimized settlement, we’re here to help make these challenging decisions easier. We want both parties to benefit from fair and balanced outcomes, so you can focus on moving forward.
If you’re beginning to explore your divorce options, including mediation, TruNorth’s Berni Stevens is ready to support you at every step. As an experienced mediator, divorce coach, and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA), Berni provides invaluable expertise in mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation. Her mission is to empower clients to make confident decisions that serve their best interests throughout the divorce journey.
Taking control of your financial future can start with a single step. Set up a free Divorce Strategy Session with us today, and let’s work together to clarify your next steps.
For further insights and support, check out our full collection of divorce-related articles, news, and resources here. And don’t forget to follow us on social media for ongoing tips and resources to help you navigate this journey with greater confidence!
Are you considering divorce but dread the thought of courtroom drama? There’s another approach besides mediation that you may want to consider. Let’s dive in to explore!
Many couples consider the possibility of mediation before engaging in divisive litigation. But what if mediation doesn’t seem just right? You can still divorce your spouse without divorcing your bank account or your sanity. Think of collaborative divorce as like a divorce party where everyone’s invited – you, your soon-to-be-ex, a couple of lawyers, and a team of professionals who aren’t there to judge you (unlike your in-laws).
Think of it as putting together an all-star lineup for Team Amicable Separation. Here’s who you’ll have in your corner:
You’re the main characters in this divorce story. Your job? Try to keep it from turning into a tale of woe.
In collaborative divorce, you’re not just hiring a lawyer – you’re assembling a team of professionals to guide you through the process. Let’s take a closer look at each team member and their crucial roles:
Think of them as your legal navigators and negotiators-in-chief.
Remember, unlike in litigation, these attorneys are committed to finding mutually beneficial solutions, not “winning” at all costs.
This financial guru is like a treasure map reader for your assets and debts.
Consider them your emotional Sherpas, guiding you through the psychological terrain of divorce.
These are your special ops team, brought in for specific missions.
Imagine all these professionals as a well-oiled machine, each part working in harmony:
The beauty of this team approach is that it addresses all aspects of your divorce – legal, financial, emotional, and parental – in an integrated way. It’s like having a personal board of directors for your divorce, all working towards the common goal of a fair and sustainable agreement.
Remember, while this team might seem like a lot, they’re all there to make the process smoother, more efficient, and ultimately more beneficial for everyone involved. It’s not just about ending your marriage; it’s about setting you up for success in your post-divorce life.
Collaborative divorce works best if you and your ex can still be in the same room without reenacting famous feuds. If you’re more “mortal enemies” than “amicable exes,” traditional litigation might be your only option.
Remember, divorce doesn’t have to be a battle where the only winners are the lawyers. With collaborative divorce, you can split up and still split a pizza afterward. It’s not just a divorce; it’s a divorce with a silver lining!
So, if you’re looking for a kinder, gentler way to say goodbye to your marriage, collaborative divorce might just be your ticket to a smoother split. Who knows? You might even remain on speaking terms with your ex. On a personal note, my ex and I continue to share major holidays and celebrations with our children—over twenty-five years after the divorce! It may not seem conceivable now, but an amicable divorce can lay the groundwork for a united family in the future.
Looking to explore your divorce options including mediation? Berni Stevens, an experienced mediator, divorce coach, and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA), supports clients in mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation.
Schedule Your Complimentary Divorce Strategy Session Today!
You can read more divorce related articles, news and resources here. Don’t forget to follow along on social media for helpful divorce tips and resources!
You have several important decisions to make when you begin your divorce journey, including choosing the right divorce process. If you are considering mediation, the selection of the right divorce mediator is crucial for a successful mediation process. This article will help you understand the types of mediators, their styles, and important factors to consider when making your choice.
There are three main types of divorce mediators, each bringing different expertise to the table:
Ideally, look for a mediator who has knowledge in all these areas or consider building a team that covers these aspects.
Mediators typically use one of these styles:
Understanding these styles can help you choose a mediator whose approach aligns with your needs and preferences.
Dual mediation is an approach where two mediators work together to facilitate the divorce process. This method can offer several advantages:
While dual mediation can be highly effective, it’s important to note that it may be more expensive than working with a single mediator. When considering this option, weigh the potential benefits against the increased cost.
During your initial consultation, consider asking these questions:
Choosing the right divorce mediator is a personal decision that depends on your specific circumstances. Take the time to research and meet with potential mediators before making a decision. Remember, the goal is to find a mediator who can guide you through the process effectively, helping you reach a fair agreement while minimizing conflict and stress.
Consider scheduling initial consultations with a few mediators to get a sense of their style and approach. This will help you make an informed decision and choose a mediator who best fits your needs and situation.
And look for our upcoming article on the cost of divorce mediation!
Looking to explore your divorce options including mediation? Berni Stevens, an experienced mediator, divorce coach, and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA), supports clients in mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation.
Schedule Your Complimentary Divorce Strategy Session Today!
You can read more divorce related articles, news and resources here. Don’t forget to follow along on social media for helpful divorce tips and resources!
High net worth divorces involving significant assets can be incredibly complex, but a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) can make all the difference.
In high net worth divorces, intricate portfolios often include multiple properties, stocks, bonds, and other valuable assets. A CDFA® provides the expertise needed to make informed decisions regarding these assets, ensuring a fair distribution.
Tax implications play a crucial role in divorce settlements. A CDFA® assists in planning to minimize the overall tax burden on both parties. They can also conduct forensic analysis if there’s a suspicion of asset concealment, helping to uncover hidden financial details.
Mediation can save time and money. With a CDFA® acting as a neutral expert, both parties can better understand the financial implications of various proposals, leading to smoother negotiations and more equitable outcomes. If mediation isn’t an option, a CDFA® can work with your attorney as a consultant, providing expert testimony during the trial if needed.
Curious about how a CDFA® can support your divorce journey? Schedule Your Complimentary Divorce Strategy Session Today to learn how we can help you through this challenging time.
When you consider divorce, or if you know someone who is contemplating divorce, one of the biggest realities for those in the divorce process is the financial settlement and financial analysis post-divorce. Get the assistance of Berni Stevens, a Mediator, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®), and divorce coach.
Berni provides step-by-step guidance on matters related to divorce. With a wide range of experience and expertise related to divorce issues, Berni will simplify the process and provide much-needed clarity in areas such as long-term tax consequences, asset, and debt analysis, dividing pension plans, continued health care coverage, stock option elections, protecting support with life insurance, and much more. She can also guide you through building an effective parenting plan, and getting your divorce processed through the court.