SENE and FENE
Rachel is a trained evaluator for Social Early Neutral Evaluations (SENEs) and Financial Early Neutral Evaluations (ENEs). SENEs and FENEs are early intervention processes often suggested by the courts as a way for parties to settle child-related (SENE) and financial (FENE) matters in a divorce or custody proceeding.
A court order is required to set up a SENE or FENE.
At an SENE, each parent will be provided an opportunity to share their story and requests with the evaluator(s) and the evaluator(s) then provide evaluative recommendations for settlement based upon assessments of the law and likely court outcomes. The SENE often occurs with two evaluators but can be done with one depending on the parties’ agreement.
An FENE is similar to an SENE but the focus is on financial issues, such as child support, property division, and spousal maintenance. There is typically only one evaluator. The parties provide the necessary financial information for the evaluator to help assess and facilitate settlement opportunities.
Discussions in the ENE process are confidential. The evaluator(s) will report to the court only the fact of whether a settlement occurred or not and if it did occur, the terms that were agreed upon.
Prepare effectively.
Preparing for a Financial Early Neutral Evaluation (FENE) is crucial to ensure you present a clear and well-supported financial picture.
By being well-prepared, you increase your chances of reaching a fair settlement efficiently, saving time and legal costs.
Gather Financial Documents
You’ll need detailed and accurate financial records, including:
Property Valuations: Recent appraisals, tax assessments, or market analysis for real estate or other assets.
Income Information: Pay stubs, tax returns (last 2-3 years), W-2s, 1099s, or business income statements.
Bank Statements: Checking, savings, and investment account statements (last 6-12 months).
Retirement Accounts: 401(k), IRA, pension, or other retirement accounts with current balances.
Debt Information: Mortgage, credit card balances, car loans, student loans, and other liabilities
Household Expenses: A budget outlining your monthly expenses (housing, utilities, childcare, insurance, etc.).
Identify Key Financial Issues
What are the disputed financial matters? (e.g., division of assets, debts, spousal maintenance, child support)
What are your goals and priorities? (e.g., keeping the family home, securing spousal support, minimizing debt obligations)
Be Openminded
FENE is not a trial; it’s a settlement process. Approach it with an open mind and willingness to compromise.
Know your bottom line, but also be prepared for counteroffers and stay flexible.
Work With an Attorney or Financial Expert
If financial matters are complex (business ownership, hidden assets, etc.), consult an attorney or financial expert beforehand.
Consider running proposed settlements through a financial planner to understand long-term impacts.
By being well-prepared, you increase your chances of reaching a fair settlement efficiently, saving time and legal costs.
Anchor
Find your path forward.
Contact us today to discuss timelines and rates. We also provide services in Spanish and will work with interpreters to accommodate other language preferences.