Financially managing the details of divorce

We are in a unique position to understand the concerns of men and women leading up to and through challenging life transitions, including divorce. In addition to the emotional toll divorce can take, we know it can generate a lot of financial uncertainties as well. What will my financial picture look like after divorce? Can I stay in my home or should I downsize? Will I outlive my assets? How should I invest the money I receive in the settlement? Should and can I establish credit in my own name?

Whether you are considering divorce, presently going through a divorce or have been divorced for several years, we can help. Laura Steckler is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst™, enabling her to assist clients through the divorce process and envision the long-term financial impact of their proposed divorce settlements. She and her team can coach you through the financial details of the divorce settlement process to help minimize surprises. What might first appear as an equal distribution of an asset may not be equal after considering the original cost basis and tax consequences of liquidating or transferring the asset.

We understand how challenging the divorce process can be, and we are well positioned to provide a high-level of personalized support. Working closely with your CPA and divorce attorney, we can help determine how to value and divide property, measure personal vs. marital property, ascertain future value of retirement assets and pensions, establish a split of the marital home, calculate spousal and child support, and consider tax implications and strategies.

We also work with attorneys, accountants, and mental health professionals where appropriate who are experienced in litigation, mediation, as well as collaborative divorce. Relatedly, Laura is actively involved with the Collaborative Family Law Institute (CFLI), a network of professionals working in a defined, team-based, collaborative process to arrive at a mutually agreed-upon settlement without going to court.

Depending on where you are in the process leading up to a settlement agreement, we implement an in-depth budgeting and comprehensive planning process to help support your current lifestyle and work with you to create a plan to pursue your future goals.

Resources

Please note, changes in tax laws or regulations may occur at any time and could substantially impact your situation. While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as financial advisors of Raymond James we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.