A divorce financial planner will take a lot of stress off of your shoulders. The first step in the process is to paint a clear picture of your present finances so you are on the same page as your consultant. He or she will help you be more focused, negotiate efficiently, minimize fees and taxes, and resolve all financial matters in a prompt manner.

When you meet with your divorce financial planner there are four major consultations that will take place. The first consultation entails reviewing your current situation. With the assistance of your planner you will compile, organize, and value each of your assets. You will analyze liabilities in terms of both you and your spouse, estimate immediate needs, calculate your net worth, and develop a short term budget that is realistic.

The second consultation focuses on your future finances. You will discuss and prioritize your long-term goals, estimate any costs involved with career training and/or vocational school. You will estimate future earnings, and calculate educational expenses. Your divorce financial planner will help you project and analyze your insurance and retirement needs.

Once a settlement has been reached your divorce financial planner will explain the immediate and future ramifications involved. He or she will look at the settlement before and after taxes, estimate maintenance needs, and analyze long and short term cash flow. Most-importantly they will analyze and compare settlements or develop alternate settlements as necessary.

You will continue to meet with your divorce financial planner beyond your initial separation date. Your consultant will oversee asset transfers into your name, set up your personal budget and money management systems, manage your investments, and keep you updated as to the results.

The purpose of meeting with a divorce financial planner is to alleviate the fear and anger you may have; you can expect to attend between 6 to 10 sessions depending on the complexity of your divorce. Sessions are conducted in a neutral manner and consist of you, your spouse, a mediator, and any attorneys or accountants that need to be present from legal matters. Sessions typically last an hour or more depending on the firm that you sign with. Nevertheless expect to complete a lot of paperwork before you meet with a planner.