Yep, we said it - the legal system is not fair or your friend! In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. confronts the hard truths that the legal system is not built to be fair and it's definitely not your friend. If you're considering divorce, or going through one, it's important to understand how the court system actually works, and not how you wish it would.

Kimberly breaks down why fairness isn’t a legal standard, how relying on the court for validation is unrealistic, and what it really means to be strategic in a system that wasn’t designed with you in mind. Kimberly also gives you reminders on how to stay prepared and grounded despite the legal system not being fair or your friend!

This episode isn’t about fear but about freedom. The kind that comes from clarity, composure, and knowing how to move through a system without letting it break you.

Listen in and learn:

• Why the court focuses on facts, not feelings

• How to avoid the trap of “fighting for fairness”

• What to prioritize in your legal strategy, and

• How to protect your peace with a key mantra

Whether you're early in your divorce process or deep in the trenches, this episode will help you reset your expectations and reclaim your power in the process that is not fair or your friend.

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The Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce.

Connect with us:

Website: www.growngirldivorce.com

Instagram: @growngirldivorce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/grown-girl-divorce

To learn more about the podcast host:

Website: https://sdflaw.com/team/detail/kimberly-a-cook

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyjohnsoncook

When stress is high and emotions run deep, communication can easily become a source of conflict instead of a path to resolution. In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., breaks down six common communication mistakes that can derail your progress.

Kimberly discusses the following six mistakes:

1. Letting Emotions Drive Decisions – Learn why reacting instead of responding can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

2. Using Children as Messengers – Understand how this tactic can harm your kids and backfire legally and emotionally.

3. Engaging in Text Wars – Discover how ongoing digital disputes can become evidence, drain your energy, and distract from your goals.

4. Social Media Oversharing – Hear why posting your pain or calling out your ex online can do more harm than good, especially in court.

5. Failing to Actively Listen – Get tips for hearing what’s really being said (even when it’s hard) and how that can shift the case dynamic.

6. Neglecting to Follow Professional Guidance – Explore how disregarding the advice of your lawyer, therapist, or mediator can sabotage your progress.

Whether you’re just beginning your divorce or deep in the process, this episode will help you stay grounded, communicate more effectively, and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

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The Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce.

Connect with us:

Website: www.growngirldivorce.com

Instagram: @growngirldivorce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/grown-girl-divorce

To learn more about the podcast host:

Website: https://sdflaw.com/team/detail/kimberly-a-cook

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyjohnsoncook

This special Mother's Day episode is dedicated to all the mothers navigating divorce while balancing career, motherhood, and self-preservation. If you go by mom, mama, or mother, then this episode is for you! In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. shares five reminders to carry you through this season of life including permission to prioritize your peace, celebrate yourself, reimagine your life, and most importantly, remind you that you are a good mother!

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The Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce.

Connect with us:

Website: www.growngirldivorce.com

Instagram: @growngirldivorce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/grown-girl-divorce

To learn more about the podcast host:

Website: https://sdflaw.com/team/detail/kimberly-a-cook

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyjohnsoncook

In every divorce or custody matter, transparency with your attorney or mediator is essential for a successful outcome. Failing to disclose key details can severely damage your credibility in court, weaken your case, and lead to costly legal fees due to unnecessary complications and surprises. In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. explains how the breakdown in the attorney-client relationship caused by dishonesty can hinder your ability to receive the best legal strategy and resolution. Whether you’re navigating child custody disputes, financial settlements, or co-parenting agreements, being fully honest with your legal professional ensures they can effectively advocate for you and guide you through the process. Learn why full disclosure is not just admirable but it’s critical to protecting your interests in any family law matter.

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The Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce.

Connect with us:

Website: www.growngirldivorce.com

Instagram: @growngirldivorce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/grown-girl-divorce

To learn more about the podcast host:

Website: https://sdflaw.com/team/detail/kimberly-a-cook

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyjohnsoncook

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) or Child Representative plays an instrumental role in your custody case. In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. explains how to prepare for working with a GAL or Child Representative in your custody case, ensuring you make a solid impression while keeping your child’s best interests at the forefront. Kimberly explains what a GAL or Child Rep does and the factors which may influence their recommendations. Understanding the dos and don'ts of engaging with the GAL or Child Representative appointed in your custody case can make a big difference on the outcome of their recommendations on parenting decision making (i.e., legal custody), parenting schedule (i.e., physical custody), and other considerations that they contend are in the child's best interests.

**********************************************************************************************The Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce.

Connect with us:

Website: www.growngirldivorce.com

Instagram: @growngirldivorce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/grown-girl-divorce

To learn more about the podcast host:

Website: https://sdflaw.com/team/detail/kimberly-a-cook

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyjohnsoncook

It's time to take control of your legal costs and protect your financial future. Understanding how legal retainers work can save you time, money, and frustration during your divorce or custody case. In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce Podcast Host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. breaks down what a legal retainer is, how attorneys apply it to your case, and key strategies to maximize its value. Kimberly shares how to streamline communication, stay organized, and avoid unnecessary legal fees while ensuring you get the best representation possible. Whether you're navigating a high-conflict divorce or working through custody arrangements, these practical tips will help you make the most of your legal retainer while also saving you money.

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The Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce.

Connect with us:

Website: www.growngirldivorce.com

Instagram: @growngirldivorce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/grown-girl-divorce

To learn more about the podcast host:

Website: https://sdflaw.com/team/detail/kimberly-a-cook

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyjohnsoncook

Navigating a divorce or custody case can be overwhelming, but having the right experts on your team can make all the difference. In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., introduces us to six key professionals who may play a pivotal rule in your divorce or custody case: the Parenting Coordinator, Guardian Ad Litem or Child Representative, Custody Evaluator, Financial Neutral, Forensic Accountant, and a Business Valuator. Kimberly explains each expert's role and how they may play a role in protecting your parental rights, ensuring financial transparency, and their involvement at different stages in your case. Whether you're facing complex custody disputes or high-asset financial concerns, understanding these experts will help you make informed decisions when faced with having them in your case and the options to consider as you navigate the legal process.

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The Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce.

Connect with us:

Website: www.growngirldivorce.com

Instagram: @growngirldivorce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/grown-girl-divorce

To learn more about the podcast host:

Website: https://sdflaw.com/team/detail/kimberly-a-cook

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyjohnsoncook

Many people assume that an extramarital affair will automatically determine the outcome of their divorce, but the reality is more nuanced. In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. explains the nuances including the impact of living in a no-fault or fault-based divorce state. However, even in no-fault states, infidelity can still influence critical aspects of the divorce process, including parenting time, financial decisions, and overall negotiations. In this episode, Kimberly breaks down the true consequences of an affair during a divorce and how to navigate its impact effectively.

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The Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce.

Connect with us:

Website: www.growngirldivorce.com

Instagram: @growngirldivorce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/grown-girl-divorce

To learn more about the podcast host:

Website: https://sdflaw.com/team/detail/kimberly-a-cook

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyjohnsoncook