Navigating through a divorce is indeed a process. However, you might be unsure about this process, how to move forward, and how to process information and counsel to make the best possible decisions. After all, most people do not approach their marriage with the expectation that they might someday require an exit plan.
Many professionals in family law would agree that the divorce process should be handled like a business transaction. Yet, it is challenging during this ‘transaction’ to separate your emotions, which are probably at high tide, from the important decisions that will affect you and your children for many years to come. It can also be difficult to initiate the divorce process, know how to choose a family lawyer
, assess if your family lawyer is right for you, select other professionals such as Certified Divorce Financial Analysts (CDFA), mediators, therapists, and parenting experts, work cost-effectively with legal counsel, and ensure you put your children’s best interests first. All of these are areas where a certified divorce coach can be very helpful to you.
The role of a divorce coach is to help you navigate the divorce process so that you can better focus on what needs to be done while also reducing the complexity and costs of divorce. The goal is to assist you in making decisions with confidence by providing the research and education you need to work more effectively with your divorce team.
A divorce coach is not a substitute for the important roles of a family lawyer, mediator, or therapist. However, a coach can play a vital role in the divorce process. This includes helping people to understand what to expect, providing a basic knowledge of the dispute resolutions, and ultimately being better prepared and more confident. Working with a divorce coach is short-term and usually consists of one to three sessions.
Some of the specific objectives of a divorce coach are to help you:
- Understand the divorce dispute resolutions available
- Interview and choose the right family lawyer
- Ask the right questions of legal counsel and experts
- Know what financial and background information to bring to your family lawyer
- Organize and manage your divorce file
- Assess what experts you might want to add to your divorce team
- Access referrals to family lawyers, therapists, family mediators, Certified Divorce Financial Analysts (CDFA) and financial experts, organizations, literature
- Understand the emotional turmoil
Understanding Dispute Resolutions
There are alternatives to court that you need to be aware of and to consider when looking for legal counsel. Having a basic understanding of what these options are will assist you in choosing the right process and the right family lawyer for you. A divorce coach can help you to better understand and sort through the various alternative dispute resolutions such as negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and Collaborative Practice.
Finding a family lawyer
This is one of the most important decisions you will make in your divorce. You need to take the time and effort to find the right person for you. A divorce coach can help you to understand the consultation process and can provide guidance and referrals to assist you with your search.
Final Thoughts
The journey through the divorce process can be a daunting one, filled with emotional turmoil and important decisions that can shape your future. It’s a path that most people never anticipate they’ll have to navigate. However, the support of a certified divorce coach can be instrumental in managing these challenges.
Divorce coaches work as a thinking partner, providing guidance and emotional support while helping clients to focus on their desired outcomes. They are not a substitute for other professionals such as attorneys or financial planners, but they complement the legal process by helping clients make the best possible decisions for their personal goals and the best interests of their children.
A divorce coach can help you understand the legal system, prepare for divorce negotiations, and work towards an amicable divorce. They can assist you in dealing with the emotional stress, whether you’re contemplating divorce or already in the midst of it. They can also guide you in working with a divorce team, which may include family law experts, licensed mental health professionals, and even life coaches.
The American Bar Association recognizes the value of divorce coaching in the legal process. Divorce coaches can help you manage your emotions, improve your communication skills, and assist you in making the right decisions for your life post-divorce. They can also help you develop a parenting plan if you’re co-parenting, ensuring that the best interests of your children are always at the forefront.
In conclusion, a divorce coach is a valuable ally during this difficult time. They can help you navigate the complexities of the divorce process, from the legal system to your emotional well-being. Whether you’re dealing with the transition from a two-income family to one, or trying to make the best possible decisions for your children, a divorce coach can provide the support and guidance you need.
Remember, moving forward after a divorce is not just about surviving, but thriving. With the right support, you can navigate this challenging moment in your life and emerge stronger, ready to embrace the future.
At the Smart Divorce:
We understand that navigating through a divorce is a complex and emotionally taxing process. It’s a journey that you likely never anticipated, filled with decisions that will shape your future. But remember, you’re not alone. Our team of professionals at The Smart Divorce is here to guide you every step of the way.
We recognize that each person’s situation is unique, and we’re here to provide personalized support tailored to your needs. We’re not just here to help you survive this challenging time, but to thrive beyond it. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence you need to make informed decisions that align with your personal goals and the best interests of your children.
Our team is committed to reducing the complexity and costs of divorce. We provide the research and education you need to work more effectively with your divorce team, helping you to understand the dispute resolutions available, choose the right professionals for your team, and manage your divorce file effectively.
We know that reaching out can be difficult, but we encourage you to take that first step. Remember, this is about your future, and we’re here to help you build a strong foundation for it.
So, are you ready to take control of your divorce journey? We invite you to Schedule a Get Acquainted Call with us. Let’s explore how we can support you through this process and help you emerge stronger, ready to embrace your future.
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