Divorce is never a one-size-fits-all process which is why having specific information and targeted direction is so important.
Who can I help?
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Perhaps you just got engaged and want to understand the rights and obligations that come with marriage so you can plan accordingly and make informed decisions, just in case...
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Perhaps you are married but "divorce curious." The concept of divorce seems alien and you're afraid to even acknowledge that you're thinking about it. Still, you find yourself researching "what if" scenarios and just want to ask questions specific to your situation without anyone else knowing.
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Perhaps your spouse just asked for a divorce and you're completely blindsided and don't know where to begin; you need to talk to someone knowledgeable but immediately retaining a divorce attorney will make it feel too real.
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Perhaps you're in the midst of a divorce and getting overwhelmed by the process or myriad opinions coming from well-intentioned family and friends; you just need a clear path forward.
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Perhaps you are already divorced but the tension and conflict with your ex just never seems to end and you want to explore how to more effectively communicate.
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Certainly not an exhaustive list of who I can help, but the better question is...
How can I help?
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There are divorce attorneys and divorce coaches, each serving a different purpose with the same goal in mind - to get you to the other side of divorce. A divorce attorney is a legal professional who represents a client in all aspects of a divorce action, providing legal counsel and advocacy both in and out of court. When you schedule a consult with a divorce attorney, it may be free but you can likely expect to speak with that attorney for only a limited window of time and receive only generalized legal input. That attorney will likely require an upfront retainer deposit of several thousands of dollars before going any further with you, and you may need to replenish that retainer several times before the divorce is completely over. Even if retaining a divorce attorney is the best course of action, he or she may be an excellent litigator but less interested in holding your hand through the process. You should also consider the various tasks for which an attorney will charge you, from reading an email to the time it takes to travel to court, meaning a "quick call" that turns into an hour-long venting session could cost you hundreds. On the other hand, a divorce coach offers a more holistic approach, focusing on the emotional aspects of divorce and other logistics, but without the ability to offer legal advice.
By working with me, you will get the benefit of both a licensed attorney and a certified divorce coach regardless of where you are in your relationship.
How Does It Work?
We'd begin by scheduling a free 30-minute phone or video consult to assess your situation and needs, and then craft a divorce services package tailored to you. For example, we may find that you only need one session to discuss a singular issue. Alternatively, we may find that you need ongoing consulting services because you plan to represent yourself or seek to minimize what you need your divorce attorney to do. Through hourly phone or video sessions, I can explain the law and procedural requirements, advise what information and documents to gather and organize, assist with completing forms, help you prepare for mediation or a court appearance, or such other task to which we agree. While a divorce attorney's rate can range anywhere from $250 - $500 per hour or higher, I offer my services at a discounted rate, thus allowing you to save significantly on legal fees. During our initial consult, we may also find that you would benefit from more emotional guidance and support. This may include helping you decide if you really want a divorce in the first place or what that could look like for you. Together we'd work on identifying your values, setting goals that align with those values, and strategizing how best to achieve them. Divorce comes with a lot of confusing feelings, including hurt, anger, remorse, doubt, fear, guilt and hope. Coaching will help clear your head, enabling you to better communicate and make decisions. Coaching will also teach you to recognize and reframe limiting thoughts and beliefs, keeping you on track and motivated to meet your future.
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Ultimately, I want you to look at divorce not as a failure or loss, but as an opportunity to level-up your life!