Our divorce financial advisor’s team is managed by Ary Roepcke Mulchaey shareholder, Susan A. Moussi CPA, CFP®, CDFA. Ary Roepcke Mulchaey believes in offering a holistic approach to its clients. This niche offering allows our firm to provide valuable services to those in need when such a stressful situation such as divorce occurs.

The financial aspects of divorce are multiple, sometimes very complex, and have a lasting impact on an individual’s future. This may be the first time someone would need to plan their own personal budget or keep track of their checkbook. An individual might not be aware of their assets as far as cash accounts, retirement plans and/or investment accounts and in turn liabilities such as mortgages, car loans or credit card balances.

Our team of divorce financial advisors may be of assistance no matter which process an individual, and his or her attorney, select as the best route. An individual may need to hire one of our team members as an expert witness who may provide testimony in a litigated matter or serve as a financial advisor to one party in a non-litigated matter. Ary Roepcke Mulchaey can also be engaged as a joint neutral financial professional when couples are committed to resolving legal matters through a mutually agreeable out of court settlement, such as Collaborative Law or mediation.

Common Questions

What is the role of a divorce financial planner in relation to my attorney?
In order to give you the best legal advice possible your attorney relies on your knowledge of your finances. Many of the questions your attorney will ask will concern your finances prior to, during, and after your marriage. Knowing the specific needs of your family can be a challenging task, especially if your partner previously managed your household finances. That’s where a divorce financial advisor comes in. Ary Roepcke Mulchaey can help you be as well informed and prepared as possible so that your attorney can manage your case with you and your family’s best interests in mind.

How will a divorce financial expert assist you?
Your financial expert will not only provide valuable information you may not get on your own but will also offer advice and recommendations specifically tailored to your needs. Here are just a few of the many services your divorce financial advisor can provide:

• Advice on how to divide assets and liabilities, as well as the pro’s and con’s of different settlement proposals;
• Determining the tax consequences of your financial planning and settlement decisions;
• Providing a review of your net worth, future cash flow, your needs and sources of income;
• Discussing long- and short-term goals, and implementing a plan of actions to get you there;
• Informing you on how to split retirement plans and how to access them;
• Recommending insurance plans that meet your needs;
• Assisting you with beneficiary designations and other estate planning changes;
• Determining how to allocate the dependency exemption for children;
• Assisting you with budgeting and investing after the divorce is complete;
• And in the event that a settlement cannot be reached, a financial planner can appear in court on your behalf.

How much does a divorce financial advisor cost?
Divorce can be expensive, and while you may hesitate to invite another professional into the process, it is important to consider the long-term financial consequences of your settlement. Making smart financial decisions today will not only put you in a better position tomorrow, it will also help secure your peace of mind throughout the process.

The fees are based on the time spent working on an individual’s case. A retainer is requested at the beginning of the engagement from which the billings are drawn. Thereafter, you are billed as the work is completed. On average, a client can expect that 10 to 15 hours will be spent on his or her case.

What are some questions to be addressed by my divorce financial advisor?

• Will I be able to meet my obligations?
• What are the tax consequences of the assets I am to receive?
• Is the budget for expenses reasonable?
• Who should claim the children?
• Should or can I stay in the marital home?
• What retirement assets are available and how do I access the benefits?