This article is provided by Conservest, AAML Pennsylvania Platinum Partner.

Divorce is not only an emotional process, it’s one of the most complex financial events most people will face. Matrimonial lawyers are skilled at navigating the legal aspects of separation, but the financial implications of dividing assets, liabilities, and potential future income streams often require specialized expertise. This is why close coordination between financial advisors and matrimonial lawyers at the beginning of a divorce case is so critical.

When lawyers and financial advisors work together from the start, they can create a coordinated plan that aligns legal rights with financial realities. Lawyers ensure compliance with divorce laws and advocate for their client’s best interests in settlement negotiations. Meanwhile, financial advisors can model the long-term consequences of settlement options. Whether it’s dividing retirement accounts, determining spousal support, or deciding whether to sell the family home(s). Without this partnership, clients may accept terms that look favorable in the short term but can be unsustainable over time.

Divorce cases can involve complex financial assets such as stock options, private business ownership, pension benefits, or investment portfolios. Lawyers will identify these assets, but financial advisors are best positioned to value them accurately, access tax implications, and project future returns. By working together, the legal team guarantees nothing is overlooked, and the financial team verifies assets are properly valued and the risk profile is properly understood. The proactive approach minimizes surprises and reduces the risk of post-divorce litigation.

The end goal of divorce is a fair settlement and a strong foundation for the client’s new financial life. A financial advisor helps the client transition from the old reality to the new one by creating budgets, investment strategies, and retirement plans. When guided by legal protections secured by the lawyer, these plans provide clients the confidence to move forward.

Reach out to Conservest to see how their team can help you today!