Your Divorce Toolkit – How to be Divorce Prepared

Divorce is a complex and emotionally challenging process that can significantly impact various aspects of your life. Whether you’re just starting to consider divorce or are already in the midst of the process, it’s crucial to be prepared and equipped with the right tools.

In a recent webinar, we heard from a team of experts in their fields, for tips and advice on how to move forward during divorce; legally, financially and emotionally. We heard from Kate Ryan, Partner in IBB Law’s Family & Matrimonial team, Graeme Cowie, Director and Senior Strategic Planner at IBB Wealth, and Claire Macklin, Break up and Divorce Coach at Claire Macklin Coaching.

In this blog, we summarize the top five tips shared by each expert to empower you on your divorce journey and navigate the process successfully.

Top tips from Kate Ryan, Partner and Divorce Solicitor at IBB Law:

1. Research solicitors and make sure you have a conversation with them initially to make sure you can work with them and that they are right for you.
2. Gather your financial documents together if you can. Documents like your recent annual statement for your pension, bank statements, mortgage information. Consider having your home valued by an estate agent , and any other property that you own if you do not know what the value is.
3. If you can think about who is going to make the application for divorce, or whether you and your spouse will make a joint application. It is good to consider this and if you are able to move this forward you should.
4. Always consider alternatives such as mediation or collaborative meetings to enable you to reach an agreement with your spouse.
5. Make sure you have your support network around think carefully about what emotional anf financial support you need as well.

Top tips from Graeme Cowie, Director and Senior Strategic Planner at IBB Wealth:

1. Treat money issues as a business transaction.
2. Get a clear understanding of the finances.
3. Close all joint accounts and set up your own bank account.
4. Copy all financial paperwork.
5. Plan a budget and understand your actual expenditure.

Top tips from Claire Macklin, Break up and Divorce Coach at Claire Macklin Coaching:

1. Create a strong support network, with the right people for the right things: lawyer, coach, financial planner, friends and family.
2. Acknowledge and surf your feelings – feelings are always transitory.  Feel them rather than squashing them down – it will help you heal.
3. Use your breath to bring calm.  Your breath is a great resource – it’s free and always with you, and it can soothe your stress response.
4. Work out what you can control, and focus on that.  You can control your thoughts, actions, words and responses.
5. Set your intentions from the start – get really clear on how YOU want to be in your separation.
6. Remember to put the glass down – be kind to yourself.

Navigating a divorce is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right tools and guidance, you can emerge stronger and create a new chapter in your life. The valuable insights shared by a wealth manager, divorce lawyer, and divorce coach in the Divorce Toolkit – Divorce Prepared webinar provide an excellent starting point for successfully navigating the divorce process.

Remember to seek professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances and take care of your emotional well-being throughout the journey. By empowering yourself with knowledge and support, you can move forward with confidence and create a brighter future for yourself and your loved ones.

Speak to our experts

Should you wish to speak to someone regarding you divorce, please contact a member of the family team at IBB Law on 03456 381 381, or contact our expert speakers:

Graeme Cowie on 01895 544 001 or graeme@ibbwealth.co.uk

Claire Macklin on 07722 007528 claire@clairemacklincoaching.com