by Liesel Darby, Mediator & Divorce Coach Divorce—a stark winter landscape where the familiar, leaf-laden trees of love and partnership are suddenly bare. But what if I told you that beneath that ice lies seeds of resilience waiting to sprout? Just as the arrival of spring heralds rebirth and new beginnings, this challenging time in your life too can become a period of profound personal growth and renewal. Have you felt the chill of loneliness nipping at your heels, making you wonder if warmth and joy are forever lost? You aren't alone in this. Many women who are navigating the tumultuous ..read more

Have you ever found yourself pondering if there exists a shortcut to navigate the arduous journey of divorce? Is there a hidden secret to achieving a happily ever after in the realm of post-divorce life? If you're curious, allow me to share some enlightening insights that may not have crossed your mind: a divorce support group. Gone are the days when divorce was shrouded in shame and secrecy. In today's society, where the divorce rate among Americans ranges from 40% to 50% for first marriages and 65% to 70% for second marriages (depending on the study you consult), divorce has become as normal ..read more

When it comes to divorce and spousal support, there's a prevalent misconception that only men are obligated to pay spousal support. However, in today's ever-evolving landscape of gender roles, both professionally and domestically, the truth is that women can also be ordered to make alimony payments. This blog post aims to dismantle the stereotypes surrounding this alimony, explore the various factors that affect alimony decisions, and provide valuable insights into the growing trend of women taking on the role of alimony payers. By shedding light on this evolving dynamic, we can ..read more

Divorce, often regarded as a tumultuous and distressing game of choices where luck and competition dominate the stage, can be seen from a different perspective. Instead of viewing divorce as a game of chance, it can be likened to the intricate process of solving a complex puzzle. This alternative approach, known as intentional divorce, places importance on understanding, meticulous planning, and cooperation, thereby transforming what could be a tumultuous experience into a structured journey toward resolution and personal growth. Understanding Intentional Divorce Intentional divorce goes beyon ..read more

Are you contemplating divorce and weighing the options of collaborative divorce vs mediation? Making the right choice is vital for a smoother transition. In this article, we cut through the complexities, offering a clear comparison of both methods. With just enough detail, we aim to guide you toward the approach most in tune with your needs. Key Takeaways Collaborative divorce and mediation provide alternative dispute resolution processes for divorcing couples, focusing on negotiation and cooperation without litigation; collaborative divorce involves a team of professionals and attorneys, wh ..read more

It's the New Year! Now what? Post by Liesel Darby, Divorce Coach & Mediator The New Year is all about starting fresh, starting over, moving forward. Unless you happen to have a giant shiny red REFRESH button to hit on January 1, some intentional pondering must happen before any changes are made. If you are somewhere in the divorce process (considering divorce, in the thick of it, or post-divorce), a fresh start can look very inviting. Visualizing this clean slate and getting specific in the details ("I really want to get new bed linens in cheery yellow." "I want to stop being sick every ti ..read more

Are you wondering how to stay financially afloat while navigating a divorce? Look no further. In this guide to financial planning for divorce, we provide you with a roadmap that covers forming a support team, dividing assets fairly, and resetting your finances for a stable future. Discover actionable steps to ensure your financial resilience as you turn the page. Key Takeaways Assembling a skilled financial team during divorce, including financial advisors, family law attorneys, and Certified Divorce Financial Analysts, is crucial for navigating financial complexities and achieving favorable ..read more

Domestic violence is a critical issue that affects individuals and families deeply. Family law plays a crucial role in providing protection and legal recourse for victims of domestic violence. Understanding how family law operates in these cases is essential for victims seeking help and protection. This article aims to explore the various ways in which family law can offer support and safeguard the rights of those affected by domestic violence. Engaging a Family Law Lawyer for Protection One of the first steps in seeking protection from domestic violence is to consult with a family law attorne ..read more

Achieving Financial Stability in Divorce through Expert Guidance Divorce is more than an emotional and legal battle; it's a complex financial journey. To help you navigate these financial intricacies effectively, our service integrates the expertise of a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) into your divorce mediation process. Whether you're using a mediator from our internal team or an external mediator you prefer, a CDFA is crucial for optimizing your financial outcomes during divorce mediation. The Importance of a CDFA in Managing Divorce Finances A CDFA is a financial professional sp ..read more

Navigating through a divorce can often feel like a turbulent, confusing, and uncertain storm. Amid the whirlwind of emotions, it's easy to overlook a critical lifeline that can guide you towards calmer waters - financial stability. Financial stability, specifically taking control of your investments, can often anchor us in these challenging times. It empowers you to set a firm foundation for your new life, one where you can rebuild, grow, and flourish. In this blog post, we will walk through why reevaluating your investments is essential after a divorce, and the areas we ne ..read more