Why You Need a Support Team Before You Separate (Not Just a Lawyer)

Let me tell you something that might surprise you: most people come to a lawyer way too late.

By the time they’re sitting in my office or jumping on a Zoom, they’re already overwhelmed, emotional, and sometimes knee-deep in decisions that could’ve gone very differently—with a little support, sooner.

The Realisation That Hit Me (and Hits My Clients)

I remember one client, let’s call her Sarah. She came to me after separating from her partner of 14 years, two kids, a house, and a golden retriever later. She was holding herself together with sheer willpower (and a LOT of coffee), but emotionally? She was fried.

What she said to me stuck:
“I didn’t know I needed more than a lawyer. I thought I could figure it out on my own until everything fell apart.”

Cue me saying: you don’t have to do this alone—and you shouldn’t.

That’s exactly what this episode of The StacyM Show is all about.

A Lawyer Fixes Problems. A Team Prevents Them.

Look—I love what I do. But if I’m your first stop after a breakup, I already know it’s been a rough ride.

What you actually need before lawyers and legal letters is a strong, clear-headed support team. Think of it like building your emotional and strategic army:

• A therapist or coach to help you manage the rollercoaster of emotions

• A trusted friend or two who don’t stir the pot (read: not your gossip-loving workmate)

• A good financial advisor or mortgage broker if money or the house is involved

• And yes—a lawyer, but only when you're ready to talk next steps, not just vent

Why Earlier is Better

When you have this team in place before you separate, you make clearer decisions. You protect your energy. And, bonus: you usually save money on legal fees because you’re not using your lawyer as your therapist (trust me, we cost more per hour).

This approach gives you the clarity to move through separation—not just survive it, but make empowered, informed choices. You’re not reacting. You’re responding.

Don’t Wait for the Breakdown

Too often, people wait until they’re in crisis to reach out. But that’s like waiting until your house is on fire to buy insurance. You’re allowed to get support before it all hits the fan.

I created this podcast episode because I want you to know: you’re not weak for needing help. You’re wise for gathering the right people early.

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode

If you're even thinking about separating—or supporting a friend who is—this episode is your starting point. It’s raw, it’s real, and it just might shift how you approach the whole process.

👉 Listen to the episode here.
👉 Want to talk one-on-one? Book a consult with me and let’s create your empowered separation strategy.

You've got this—just don’t do it alone.

– Stacy x