By: One World Publishing
Divorce can be one of life’s most tumultuous experiences, including for women who may find themselves grappling with financial insecurity and emotional upheaval unlike anything they have ever experienced before. Yet, with the right preparation and foresight, women can navigate divorce with the confidence and resilience necessary to achieve positive results and restore balance for both themselves as individuals and the family as a whole. Roxana Taghavi, a Certified Family Law Specialist and co-founder of Valencia-Taghavi LLP, has dedicated over 20 years to helping women and men protect their rights and interests during divorce proceedings. Her expertise has established her as a thought leader in the field of family law, offering practical advice and strategic insight for clients at every stage of their marital journey. According to Taghavi, protecting oneself in a divorce starts long before the wedding day. Understanding your partner’s financial picture—income, assets, debts, and credit history—is not just prudent; it is essential.
Premarital Preparation: A Strong Start
“Marriage is both an emotional and financial partnership,” says Taghavi. This perspective underscores the importance of financial transparency long before saying “I do.” Key conversations about income, debts, assets, and shared goals set the foundation for a secure union.
For women with significant earnings or assets, premarital agreements can offer protection and clarity. These agreements establish expectations and streamline property division in case of a divorce. According to Taghavi, a well-drafted premarital agreement can help avoid disputes and ensure financial security.
Staying Financially Involved During Marriage
While premarital planning is critical, staying financially informed throughout the marriage is equally vital. Women should avoid the common pitfall of deferring financial management to their spouses.
“Many clients are blindsided during divorce because they had no knowledge of their marital finances,” Taghavi explains. To avoid this, women should regularly review bank statements, tax returns, and credit card accounts. Insisting on access to joint accounts and financial documents ensures awareness and reduces vulnerability.
Taghavi also emphasizes caution when signing contractual real estate and tax documents, which can impact property rights and financial obligations in the event of a divorce. Reviewing these documents thoroughly before signing not only keeps the traditional ‘out-spouse’ informed but can help safeguard personal interests.
Navigating the Divorce Process
For women entering divorce proceedings, Taghavi’s advice is straightforward: arm yourself with knowledge and build a strong team. Her experience spans high-conflict custody battles, complex property divisions, and intricate jurisdictional issues, making her a trusted guide through even the most contentious divorces.
When it comes to custody arrangements, Taghavi advocates for agreements that minimize conflict and prioritize the well-being of children. Her success in securing favorable outcomes for her clients stems from her focus on long-term stability.
“Divorce is an opportunity for reinvention,” Taghavi says. With the right support and legal counsel, women can emerge stronger, more independent, and ready to rebuild their lives.
Building a Support Network
Divorce is as much an emotional journey as it is a legal one. Taghavi encourages women to establish a reliable support network of friends, family, and peers.
“A strong support system can make all the difference,” she says. Trusted friends and family members can assist with childcare during court appearances, and those who have experience with divorce can provide empathy and practical advice along the way.
Similarly, social media communities dedicated to divorce and co-parenting challenges can also offer a sense of camaraderie. These online spaces connect women facing similar struggles, fostering connections that can provide encouragement and guidance.
Prioritize Mental Health
The stress of divorce can take a significant toll on mental health. Seeking support from a therapist with expertise in high-conflict divorce or co-parenting can help women manage emotional challenges during this period.
“Your mental well-being is just as important as financial preparation,” advises Taghavi. For those already seeing a therapist, increasing session frequency during this time can be beneficial. “You are not alone in this journey,” she reminds clients.
Choosing the Right Attorney
Selecting an attorney is one of the most critical decisions in a divorce. Taghavi urges women to interview multiple candidates and choose someone who demonstrates expertise, availability, and compassion.
“Your attorney should understand your unique needs and be committed to your case,” she advises. Rushing this decision can lead to unnecessary stress or inadequate representation.
Taghavi’s own practice reflects the qualities she encourages women to seek. As co-founder of Valencia-Taghavi LLP, she blends personalized service with comprehensive expertise in the practice of family law, making her a trusted advocate for her clients.
A Trusted Advocate and Thought Leader in Family Law
Taghavi brings a boutique firm’s personalized service combined with the strategic acumen she honed during her nearly decade-long tenure at the nation’s largest family law firm. Recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2019, she is part of an elite group of family law specialists certified by the State Bar of California—a distinction held by less than 1% of attorneys statewide.
Her practice spans the gamut of family law issues, from handling cases involving restrictive gatekeeping and alienation to navigating domestic violence and the needs of special-needs children. These diverse experiences have cemented her reputation as a compassionate yet tenacious advocate for women’s rights.
Roxana Taghavi’s message is clear: Women should never feel powerless in their marriages or divorces. By taking proactive steps, staying informed, and seeking expert legal guidance, women can safeguard their interests and thrive, no matter the challenges they face.
In a field often clouded by emotion and uncertainty, Taghavi’s clear-eyed expertise and client-centered approach make her a beacon of empowerment for women navigating the complexities of divorce.
Disclaimer
The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with a qualified legal professional for guidance specific to their circumstances. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy and relevance, no guarantees are made regarding the completeness or suitability of the information for any individual situation. This article is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship.
Published by Stephanie M.
