As a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, I have three possible roles - as a consultant to an individual, as a neutral financial professional for the divorcing couple or registered domestic partners who are in mediation, or as a neutral financial professional for the divorcing couple or registered domestic partners who have agreed to the collaborative law model.

I act as a consulting financial analyst to the individual who is either in litigation, mediation, or collaboration and is looking for independent help in any of the following areas: budgeting, determining and prioritizing the family's financial needs, providing a blueprint for the legal financial disclosures, analyzing the short and long term consequences of possible settlement options by using projections over 10 - 30 years, identifying the tax consequences of these same scenarios, reviewing the final settlement agreement before it is signed to ensure there are no remaining financial concerns, and educating the individual so that he/she can make fully informed financial decisions and agreements.

For the couple in mediation my role is as a neutral financial professional. I provide all of the same services listed above but in a neutral fashion for both parties. I explain the tax ramifications associated with various settlements under consideration and look for the options which provide the least tax burden to both parties. In addition, I can prepare projections for the couple which will show each of them what their financial position will be over time.

In the collaborative law setting my role for the couple in collaboration is also as a neutral financial analyst with the added element of being a member of the collaborative team which includes attorneys and coaches to help the parties reach the best possible settlement agreement which addresses each individual's needs, interests, and goals. I educate the couple so that they can make fully informed financial decisions on a level playing field.

Play the video below to learn more about the role of a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst in Collaborative Practice (about five minutes in length):

Or click here to view on Youtube Collaborative Council of the Redwood Empire, Sonoma County, CA

To learn about the value of hiring a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, read the article titled:

"Add a Break-up Quarterback - A divorce specialist can play a key role on your planning team"

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DISCLAIMER:The information you obtain at this website is not, nor is it intended to be, financial or legal advice. Jude Sterling recommends you consult with a financial or legal expert for individual advice regarding your own situation.