Why a Financial Advisor Might Be the Most Important Person on Your Divorce Team

Divorce doesn’t just divide a relationship. It divides a life — and that means dividing the finances too. The home, the savings, the debt, the retirement accounts, the monthly budget, the “who’s paying for what now?” conversations — they all land on your plate at once, often when you’re already emotionally maxed out. That’s why, in addition to legal help, having a financial advisor on your team can change everything.

At Divorce Support Network, we connect members with trusted financial professionals who specialize in helping people navigate the complexities of divorce — and come out stronger on the other side.

If you’ve never worked with a financial advisor before, it’s easy to assume they’re only for wealthy people with big portfolios. But during divorce, a good advisor isn’t about luxury — it’s about clarity. They help you figure out what you have, what you owe, what your financial future looks like, and how to make smart decisions now that will protect you later.

Think of it like this: your lawyer handles the legal process. Your financial advisor helps you build the plan for your new life.

One of the most important things a financial advisor can do is help you understand what’s on the table. That includes assets like retirement funds, pensions, investments, and home equity — as well as debts like credit cards, personal loans, and taxes. They’ll walk you through how each one might be split, what you’re entitled to, and how the decisions you make today could affect your financial health years down the line.

They’ll also help you look ahead. After divorce, your financial landscape changes — sometimes dramatically. You may be moving from two incomes to one. You might be responsible for rent or a mortgage you didn’t carry before. Maybe you’re getting child support or paying it. Maybe you’re reentering the workforce. Whatever your situation, a financial advisor can help you build a realistic, sustainable post-divorce budget — not just for the next month, but for the next chapter.

If your divorce involves spousal support (alimony), a financial advisor can help you understand how that affects your taxes and your long-term planning. If you’re keeping the house, they can help you evaluate whether you can afford it. If you're concerned about retirement, they can help you assess your timeline and reset your goals. In short, they’re there to help you see the big picture — and to help you make choices from a place of empowerment, not panic.

And let’s be honest: many people come into divorce having never been the “money person” in the relationship. Maybe your ex handled the bills, made the investment decisions, or managed the accounts. If that’s your situation, you might feel embarrassed or overwhelmed. You shouldn’t. You’re not behind — you’re just stepping into something new. A great financial advisor won’t judge you. They’ll walk beside you, explain things clearly, and help you feel confident in your decisions.

Inside the Divorce Support Network, we match you with advisors who are trauma-informed, divorce-educated, and genuinely invested in your success. Whether you need a one-time consultation to get your bearings or ongoing support as you build a new financial future, we can help you find someone who meets your needs, speaks your language, and works within your budget.

Because here’s the truth: money is power. And during divorce, when so much can feel out of control, taking charge of your finances is one of the most grounding, protective things you can do for yourself.

You’re not just trying to get through this. You’re trying to come out stronger. Smarter. More secure. A financial advisor can help you get there — and we’ll help you find the one who’s right for you.