Divorce is more complicated than many couples realize. Add to those complications the differences of opinion that naturally go along with a couple’s inability to live together, and it can get out of hand very quickly. Divorce mediation, however, can help. A divorce mediator can help couples find solutions to problems so thorny that the couple believed them to be impossible to solve. Because many of the issues that arise are financial in nature, many Florida couples may choose to bring a financial advisor into the mediation process to make sure that there is an equitable division of assets between both parties.

Many accounts are more difficult to assign a value to than others, such as 401(k) plans, bonds, stocks, and mutual funds. Because they are difficult to place a value on, they are often split since they are not liquid assets. A financial advisor can enter into the mediation process with expertise that can help the couple and the mediator look at all of their options, as well as recommending ideas that could achieve a fair settlement for both parties.

Taxes are another concern about which a financial advisor can provide expertise during the mediation process. If there are children involved, a financial advisor can advise the couple on the long-term ramifications of asset division for the couple’s children. Long-term financial planning may be the furthest thing from the couple’s minds during divorce mediation, but it is indeed an important consideration that should be looked at seriously by both parties. A financial advisor can help the couple see beyond the moment and arrive at a solution that will work best for them in the long run.

Having a financial advisor present during divorce mediation can help the negotiation process take place smoothly. A fair and equitable asset division is not always an equal split, but one based upon the needs of each of the parties involved. A financial advisor can help couples realize what is involved in making asset division truly fair. If the couple can put their disagreements on the backburner and focus on asset division that is fair to both parties, divorce mediation including a financial advisor can help bring an amicable close to the marriage.