A divorce isn’t just a legal process—it’s an emotional, financial, and logistical transformation. In this episode, Karen welcomes Amy Colton, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), wealth advisor, and family law mediator, for a deep and eye‑opening conversation about the financial side of divorce that so many people overlook.
Amy explains why divorce truly requires three professionals: emotional support, legal guidance, and financial expertise. She breaks down the common myth that attorneys handle “everything,” and reveals why relying solely on legal counsel often leads to missed information, unnecessary conflict, and higher costs. As she puts it, “What do people fight about? They fight about finances.”
Together, Karen and Amy explore the tax implications of divorce—especially for couples separating late in the year—and how filing status, capital gains, and taxable vs. non‑taxable assets can dramatically affect the final settlement. Amy shares real‑world examples of hidden income, red flags in tax returns, and even financial abuse uncovered through forensic review. “There are so many nuances inside the tax return,” she notes, emphasizing why every divorcing couple should examine at least two years of returns.
Listeners will also learn about QDROs, restricted stock units, dividing the marital home, and why “fair” doesn’t always mean 50/50. Amy offers guidance for those anxious about managing money post‑divorce and explains how she supports clients in building financial stability long after the paperwork is signed.
Whether you’re contemplating divorce, in the thick of it, or supporting someone who is, this episode delivers essential financial insight—and a reminder that divorce can be designed with intention rather than defaulting to conflict.
Find Amy Colton at
yourdivorcemadesimple.com