Navigating divorce is like riding an emotional rollercoaster, but it's also a significant financial transaction. As you untangle the threads of your emotional life, you're also disentangling your financial partnership.

While it's uncomfortable to think about, hidden assets are a reality in some divorces. Trust is essential, but being aware of potential red flags is equally important. Financial professionals can assist in uncovering any hidden assets, protecting your rightful share of the settlement.

Even though thinking about divorce can be tough, it's important to think about money too.

Here are some important things to think about before deciding to get a divorce…

The New Year always brings with it a sense of renewal and fresh beginnings. But when you're entering this phase after a divorce, the change can feel both daunting and exhilarating. As a Certified Divorce Coach, I've guided many through this transition. Here’s how you can embrace this new chapter with positivity and empowerment, sans the cliché resolutions.

2023 stands in sharp contrast to 2022. In 2022, stocks and bonds declined by double digits. Investor sentiment suggested more of the same for 2023. In contrast, the US economy continued to grow, supported by a resilient consumer. Consumers' spending spree included shopping, travel as well as shelling out big dollars for events like the Taylor Swift Eras Tour. As the economy surprised for the better, so did the markets.

2023 is a perfect example that markets are never

obvious, let alone predictable. In this edition, we take three market trends that reversed sharply from 2022 and some lessons from Taylor Swift as we reflect on her success.

The January Divorce Phenomenon: January often witnesses a spike in divorce filings, and experts attribute this surge to a variety of factors. The holiday season, with its focus on family and togetherness, may prompt couples to delay their decision until after the festivities. Additionally, the start of a new year can inspire resolutions for change, leading some individuals to take the difficult step of ending their marriages.

CHANGE 1: Life Insurance Policy Court-Ordered to Secure Alimony Obligation

There is a recent case law development from the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals regarding the trial court’s authority to order a party to maintain life insurance to secure his/her periodic alimony to the other party. The Turney case clarifies that the trial court does not have the authority to require a party to maintain life insurance on his life to secure periodic alimony for the opposing party. Turney v. Turney, 2022 WL 17368821 (Ala. Civ. App., Dec. 2, 2022) “Thus, although a trial court has discretion to award life insurance as a separate award for the benefit of the wife, see Lackey, supra; Sellers v. Sellers, 893 So. 2d 456 (Ala. Civ. App. 2004); Bush v. Bush, 784 So. 2d 299, 300 (Ala. Civ. App. 2000); and Strong v. Strong, 709 So. 2d 1259 (Ala. Civ. App. 1998), it cannot order the payor spouse to maintain a life-insurance policy to secure a periodic-alimony obligation, which is an obligation that is terminable at the payor spouse's death. Lacey, supra. Therefore, in the Turney case, the trial court erred by ordering the husband to maintain a life-insurance policy for the benefit of the wife to secure his periodic-alimony obligation, and its judgment is reversed in this regard.”

In our journey towards building sustainable wealth, it's crucial to also nurture a sense of gratitude for the financial blessings we have. Practicing gratitude not only enhances our emotional well-being but also positively impacts our financial decisions.

In honor of Thanksgiving, let’s bring some science into the art of gratitude! Did you know...

Often, women may find themselves living in a house, and often co-parenting with, a partner who they may be in the process of divorcing. Many may experience difficulty in communicating effectively before, during , and after a divorce.

When you are in this type of situation, and bringing up a concern to your partner, the first three minutes are crucial. A Soft Startup sets a positive tone and can help to minimize or resolve conflict. By beginning a conversation calmly and respectfully, you and your partner are more likely to focus on the problem, rather than what’s the problem.

Scary headlines, recessions, and bear markets all have negative connotations and create fear in the minds of investors. Fear drives emotions, which can lead to investment mistakes. Moving out of the market at the wrong time can cause long-term damage to portfolio values.

Once again, the dysfunction in Congress could lead to a government shutdown if a deal is not reached by September 30, 2023. For many, this may be confusing, as we just went through another debacle earlier this year.

2022 felt very different, and the 60/40 portfolio tumbled as we saw markets move together with high inflation and the Federal Reserve raising rates at a very fast pace. Historically, periods of extreme inflation are the worst for 60/40 portfolios.

While friends and family can offer support during this tumultuous time, working with a divorce coach can provide invaluable guidance and expertise to navigate the divorce process while simultaneously preparing you for a fulfilling life after divorce. In this blog post, we will explore the transformative role of a divorce coach, highlighting how their support can empower you to reclaim your life, find inner strength, and embrace a brighter future.

If you are contemplating or have already filed for divorce, then this is likely a time in your life with increased stressors and responsibilities. Self- defense is vitally important. With any situation, such as impending divorce, more care should be directed at emotional and mental needs.

Divorce can be an emotionally challenging time, and it is important to take care of yourself during this time. Prioritizing self-care after divorce can be difficult, but it is essential to help you move forward and heal. Here are some tips for prioritizing self-care after divorce…

Divorce is always rough, but things can get especially challenging when children are involved. Navigating co-parenting after divorce can be an additional stressor. However, it is important to keep the well-being of your children in mind and make co-parenting work for everyone involved. Here are some tips to help you navigate co-parenting after divorce…

What information can you bring to the table to help your attorney and help you get the most out of your time. If you're like me, I'm a type A personality and I like I would want to come in with as much information as possible so that this person can help me the most in that 1 hour I have. You know I'm using my hard-earned money and I don't blame you. I'd want to know the most I can to get the most out of the hour as possible. So something I would suggest you have a good understanding to the best of your ability is the marital assets.

The clock is ticking on US debt ceiling negotiations. Treasury Secretary Yellen informed Congress that cash balances are estimated to run out by early June, the so- called X-date. With the deadline fast approaching, markets are sending signals about investor concerns. Treasury bills with maturity dates in mid-summer are seeing higher yields.While there is no playbook on how this showdown will unfold, sadly, this is not our first rodeo either.

Hear from Jessie Keating Hardy, Esq. from J. Hardy Family Law on the questions a lawyer is most commonly asked at a divorce consultation.