Frequently Asked Questions

A CDFA® is a financial professional that has specialized training focusing on the financial aspects of divorce including budgeting, asset and liability analysis, tax implications, division of assets, spousal and child support needs and other financial implications of divorce. It is a designation that is earned through a rigorous training process and is maintained with required continuing education on a yearly basis. The certification is open to individuals with 3 or more years of experience in a financial or divorce specific field. A CDFA® can work individually with clients, as a neutral with divorcing couples and/or in collaboration with mediators and attorneys. They will typically provide written reports that can aid in the creation of divorce settlements. In my practice I work almost exclusively with women as their financial advocate to empower them to make wise financial choices.

Yes. The same basic financial principles apply to both separation and divorce. Like a divorce, a legal separation judgment can establish parenting time and child support. The judgment can also divide property and debts and establish spousal support. A legal separation in Oregon can be converted to a divorce at a later date if both parties agree. Legal separation can be a good way to protect your financial assets and establish support while couples are working toward reconciliation.

I am an active real estate agent working with buyers and sellers all over the Portland metro area and surrounding suburbs. My clients range from first time home buyers, sellers who are relocating or ready to upgrade to their next home, downsizers and investors. When working with clients considering separation or divorce, I can help evaluate the value of the family home as well as the viability of purchasing a new home. I also have relationships with mortgage lenders who understand the unique issues facing women experiencing divorce and can help with pre-approvals as needed for refinancing your current home or for a new purchase.

A financial analysis will help you gain a full understanding of your marital financial picture and help you assess the financial viability of separation and/or divorce. The analysis I provide is meant to empower you with knowledge to make your own wise financial and personal decisions. Whether you ultimately decide to move forward with a separation or divorce, it is important that you have a working knowledge of your finances.

No it’s not too late. In fact, many of my referrals come from mediators and attorneys who see a need for their clients to have some additional coaching and advocacy around financial matters. Particularly when one party hasn’t been as involved in the day to day finances of a family. We will determine on our discovery call what your needs are and what package works best for your situation.

It’s not uncommon for my clients to be concerned about the cost of this service but most are pleasantly surprised to realize through the analysis process that they have more financial assets to use than they thought. The analysis I provide helps women feel much more financially secure because they have a full understanding of their financial situation and their legal rights. A client recently shared with me that her attorney told her she had saved “a lot of money” by completing the analysis with me and eliminating the need for formal discovery by her attorney. The money spent on your financial analysis is intended to save you money in the long run and ensure you get all the financial assets you are entitled to. Some of my clients have asked family members or friends to pay my initial retainer with the understanding that they would be paid back once a settlement is reached. I’m happy to discuss creative solutions so you can get the help you need.

*If you can’t afford my services, you may not actually need them because that may mean that you don’t have significant income and assets to divide. I will be able to help you assess your needs on the free discovery call.