Chartered Financial Divorce Specialist

Chartered Financial Divorce Specialist (CFDS) is a Canadian professional designation that can be earned by eligible individuals holding a recognized financial designation (CFP, R.F.P., PFP, CLU, CHFC, CA, CMA, CIA, CGA, or CSWP) and have completed specific training in the financial aspects of life transitions with respect to collaborative (mediated) cohabitation, marriage agreements, relationships or marital breakdowns (separation or divorce). It is based on professional best practice standards and a code of professional ethics, granted and monitored by the Academy of Financial Divorce Specialists in Ontario, Canada and other relevant licensing authorities.

CFDS professionals are required to possess a recognized financial or accounting designation or accreditation. Annual ongoing education is required to maintain the designation.

Adding financial expertise can simplify unrealistic expectations on the part of a separating couple which drive contested asset division. For example, by pointing out (with validated projections) that a couple will no longer be able to afford an asset they are arguing over, due to their decision to separate.

Lawyers can reduce their liability from financial advising without a recognized finance background, and make use of financial projections provided by the Chartered Financial Divorce Specialist. Divorce planners often conduct divorce mediation as well. Some lawyers state having a mediation process can prevent problems escalating and may be a point for rebuilding marriages troubled by 'financial infidelity.'. Mediation costs 3/4 what a court case would.