Get a Smart Divorce Blog

Do you have a fair divorce settlement? You may think so but, I see 3 common mistakes in settlements. The first mistake is you don't know what to ask for because you don't really know what you need. The mistake here is not understanding your monthly living expenses. A thorough list of monthly...…

Divorce mediation preparation done right will make a significant impact on your settlement. For example, a divorce client in my Nashville, TN office recently asked me to help her prepare for her mediation. After reviewing her case, I saw several common financial mistakes. First, her house had not...…

Divorce Parenting Plans are frequently difficult to draft. I was meeting with a divorcing couple in my Brentwood, Tn office this week because they were arguing over how their child should spend time with each of them. I asked one question and it stopped the arguing…"What is best for your son?"...…

A divorce client in my Brentwood, TN office said she wanted to retain my services because she did not have confidence that her attorney could really give her meaningful financial advice. She asked her attorney, “Should we pay off the house or should we keep the extra cash? If we pay off the...…

If your spouse is uncooperative, you have two options: Pay your attorney to go to court or, educate your spouse what lies ahead if they are uncooperative. A spouse who is refusing to provide financial information does not understand they can’t withhold information. Perhaps they have always been...…

Does one size fit all? While this concept is most commonly applied to clothing (these items rarely fit properly), it also used in divorce settlements. Regardless if the settlement is in Nashville, Brentwood, TN or your city and state. Your family is unique and so are your needs. Yes, attorneys tell...…

Going through a divorce can be an emotionally difficult time. Ironing out a divorce settlement, attending various hearings, and dealing with attorneys can weigh heavy on all individuals involved. In addition to the emotional impact, individuals and families are left trying to assess how their...…

A QDRO (Qualified Domestic Relations Order) is a legal document necessary when dividing a qualified retirement plan such as a 401(K) or 403(b). It is not required when dividing an IRA. A QDRO is typically prepared by the divorce attorney and costs about $1,200. If you are dividing retirement funds...…

If in the midst of divorce and your marital estate includes stock options, it is important to understand the details. Stock options cannot typically be transferred to the other spouse. For example, if your spouse receives the stock options from their employer, they are assigned to that person and...…

A divorce client mentioned she was considering allowing her husband to have three years to pay her the money he owed her from her share of their business. Giving him three years would reduce the considerable financial pressure on her soon to be ex-husband and his business. I told her I thought this...…