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By Dorit Goikhman
Founding Attorney

Money is one of the most emotionally charged aspects of any divorce. Questions about what’s fair, what’s hidden, and what’s owed can easily lead to mistrust. Collaborative divorce takes a different approach and one grounded in financial transparency, fairness, and informed decision-making.

Why Transparency Matters
At the core of collaborative divorce is a shared commitment to honesty. Both spouses fully disclose their financial information so the team can make informed, equitable decisions. This openness reduces suspicion, levels the playing field, and allows for more creative and sustainable solutions.

What Does Financial Disclosure Look Like?

  • Listing all assets, including homes, investments, retirement accounts, and business interests
  • Disclosing all debts, from mortgages to credit card balances
  • Reviewing income, expenses, and future earning potential
  • Sometimes involving a neutral financial specialist to assist with complex situations

Creative Solutions Through Collaboration
Rather than being locked into rigid formulas, the collaborative process encourages flexibility. For example:

  • One spouse may keep the family home while the other receives more in retirement assets
  • Business ownership can be preserved with offsetting financial agreements
  • Payment structures can be phased over time to meet both parties’ needs

A Fair Outcome Doesn’t Mean 50/50
Fairness is about what works for both people and not necessarily an even split. The collaborative team helps craft agreements that reflect the unique needs of the family, whether that’s supporting a stay-at-home parent, preserving a shared business, or planning for children’s education expenses.

Moving Forward with Confidence
When financial decisions are made collaboratively, the outcome is not just a division of assets—it’s a plan for financial independence and stability. Both people walk away with clarity, ownership, and the ability to move forward without lingering resentment or confusion.

If you’re concerned about fairness and transparency in your divorce, collaborative divorce offers a safe, supported path to a balanced financial future.

About the Author
Dorit L. Goikhman is a licensed attorney, with years of experience representing clients throughout Central California in business, real estate, and family matters. After witnessing numerous clients spend fortunes and waste years of their lives in litigation, Dorit became interested in mediation and all that it has to offer. Dorit is committed in helping parties work together to obtain a mutually acceptable solution to their disputes at a fair price. Her approach is to keep things simple, confidential, and efficient with the goal of preserving the parties’ assets, reputations, and sanity. If you have any questions regarding this blog, you can contact Dorit here.