By Your Side: Divorce Law and Support

I Want to File for Divorce. Where Do I Start?

Episode Summary:
In this episode, longtime family law attorney and divorce coach Patricia Sokolich walks women through the very first steps of divorce. From recognizing the signs it may be time to leave, to gathering the right financial documents, to understanding mediation and custody evaluations, Patricia explains how proper preparation can make all the difference. She shares practical advice for women who feel ready to move forward but don’t know where or how to begin.
Key Timestamps:
01:40 – Signs it may be time to consider divorce04:30 – Why you shouldn’t rush to hire a lawyer immediately06:15 – The financial documents every woman should gather09:50 – How a divorce coach helps you prepare for custody evaluations12:30 – Mediation: benefits, risks, and what to know before agreeing16:00 – Finding the right attorney and knowing your end goals
About the Show:
By Your Side: Divorce Law and Support is a podcast for women navigating the uncertainty of divorce. Hosted by Patricia Sokolich, a family law attorney with more than 30 years of experience and a certified divorce coach, the show blends legal insight with compassionate guidance. Each episode offers practical tools on financial preparation, custody considerations, and choosing the right attorney—while also addressing the emotional challenges of leaving a marriage. Whether you’re just beginning to wonder if divorce is right for you, preparing for mediation, or rebuilding afterward, this show provides clarity, confidence, and support every step of the way.

What Is a Divorce Coach and How Can One Help?

Episode Summary:
In this episode, family law attorney Patricia Sokolich shares insights from over 30 years of experience helping women navigate the challenges of divorce. Now offering private divorce coaching, she explains how coaching provides clarity, emotional support, and practical preparation before hiring an attorney. Patricia discusses the misconceptions about divorce, the importance of financial awareness, the role of domestic control in relationships, and how women can gain confidence and control through guided support.
Key Timestamps:
00:45 – What is a divorce coach and how can they help?02:20 – Why Patricia transitioned from courtroom law to coaching04:30 – Misconceptions about divorce and relying on friends’ experiences07:15 – Managing expectations and the role of coaching in preparation09:40 – Listening, empathy, and when to seek professional therapy12:00 – Financial preparation and the “pre-divorce prep period”15:10 – Addressing domestic control and ensuring safety before divorce17:50 – Patricia’s experience supporting survivors of abuse19:30 – Advice for women who feel stuck or scared before taking the next step
About the Show:
By Your Side: Divorce Law and Support is a podcast for women navigating the uncertainty of divorce. Hosted by Patricia Sokolich, a family law attorney with more than 30 years of experience and a certified divorce coach, the show blends legal insight with compassionate guidance. Each episode offers practical tools on financial preparation, custody considerations, and choosing the right attorney—while also addressing the emotional challenges of leaving a marriage. Whether you’re just beginning to wonder if divorce is right for you, preparing for mediation, or rebuilding afterward, this show provides clarity, confidence, and support every step of the way.