I’m thinking about getting a divorce. How can a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) help me?

Your timing is good: you should meet with a CDFA before your divorce to help you get an idea of what your financial future will look like. CDFAs are specifically trained in the financial issues of divorce. We fill the missing component in the divorce process: financial expertise!

If you have an amicable relationship with your soon-to-be ex-spouse, a CDFA can visit with both of you to discuss settlement options that will be financially equitable. This process will typically save you the most money and time.

If you don’t feel comfortable in a mediation setting with your spouse, a CDFA can review your financial options with you and refer you to an attorney to handle the legal matters in your divorce. The CDFA will then provide you and your attorney with powerful financial data to support your case.

A CDFA will project your current and future financial cash flows and net worth under different settlement options. Illustrating the future financial picture of each spouse is an objective process that creates reality, reducing much of the emotion and anger involved, including any issues involving children. A CDFA will provide financial guidance on areas such as property division, child support, spousal support, tax issues, retirement planning, budgeting, and overall personal financial management.

If you weren’t involved in your financial matters during your marriage, you’re definitely at a disadvantage during divorce. There’s nothing like a “crash course” in personal financial management during an extremely emotional time. Financial guidance is essential so that you don’t agree to a settlement that may leave your financial well-being in a vulnerable state — now or in the future.

The most important concern most people have while going through their divorce is: “how am I going to live,” or more accurately, “how am I going to survive after my divorce?” You need to fully understand your many options in order to secure your financial future.

Connie Walsh is a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst who heads Divorce $olutions, part of Walsh Financial Services. Connie brings approximately 25 years’ experience in the financial industry, including 12 years on Wall Street, to her practice.