• Session 3

The Financial Reality of Divorce

This session focuses on the financial mechanics underlying divorce settlements. Participants will learn how to organize financial disclosures, evaluate asset division proposals, and assess the long-term sustainability of settlement options.

Topics include the construction of a marital balance sheet, classification of assets and liabilities, retirement account division considerations, and the treatment of real estate. The financial advisor will explain how liquidity differs from asset value and why cash flow planning is essential when transitioning from one household to two.

Tax implications will be addressed at a general educational level, including capital gains considerations, support-related tax treatment, and retirement transfer rules. Participants will be guided through post-divorce budgeting concepts and the importance of realistic income projections.

The session emphasizes that financial clarity reduces negotiation conflict and prevents avoidable post-agreement hardship.
Speaker: Financial Advisor

Topics:

  • Asset and debt division strategy
  • Retirement division basics (QDRO overview)
  • Tax implications of settlements
  • Real estate decisions
  • Business ownership considerations
  • Budgeting for two households
  • Financial documentation required for mediation

Tool Provided:

  • Marital Balance Sheet Template
  • Post-Divorce Budget Worksheet
  • Financial Document Checklist
  • About

Speaker: Financial Advisor

Length of Time: 40 minutes

Objective:
To provide attendees with a structured understanding of the financial components of divorce so they can organize disclosures, evaluate settlement options, and make informed decisions during mediation.

Interactive Component:
Marital Balance Sheet Template, Post-Divorce Budget Worksheet, and Financial Document Checklist

The Financial Reality of Divorce