Financial Early Neutral Evaluation, or FENE, is a confidential process that helps parents address financial issues in a divorce. It is similar to mediation, but the evaluator also provides an informed opinion about how a court may view issues such as property division, debts, income, spousal maintenance, and child support.
During a FENE, the parents and their attorneys, if any, meet with Angela and share information about their assets, debts, income, and monthly expenses. Angela reviews the financial information, explains what she believes may be a likely outcome based on her family court experience, and helps the parents explore whether they can reach agreement on some or all financial issues.
Full and accurate financial disclosure is essential to a productive FENE. Angela will listen, ask questions, and gather the information needed to understand the financial issues. After she shares her recommendations, both parents may ask questions and seek clarification. The parents and their attorneys can then work with Angela to try to resolve some or all remaining issues.
