Key Takeaways
Considering divorce? If so, it’s natural to feel uncertain about your children, finances, and emotional well-being. Although this can be a challenging and overwhelming time, you don’t have to face it alone. Throughout the process, it is important for you to:
- Stay Focused on What Matters: Emotional challenges can affect your judgment. It is essential to prioritize your children’s well-being and long-term stability, minimizing distractions that could impede progress.
- Embrace Flexibility: Whether through mediation, collaborative law, or litigation, you can identify the most appropriate path for your circumstances—helping to reduce time, expense, and stress.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Divorce often brings feelings of self-doubt. Consider leveraging resources such as individual therapy to aid in your healing, rebuild confidence, and make thoughtful, informed decisions.
- Plan for Your Legacy: Update your estate plan to ensure your assets and values are effectively passed on to your children, fostering security and stability for your family.
Divorce Is More Than a Legal Process
Divorce is a deeply personal journey that can reshape your entire life. For those coming from long-term marriages, this transition often raises important concerns about financial security, relationships with children, and finding a sense of peace after years of emotional commitment.
Navigating the emotional challenges alongside complex financial and logistical matters requires a steady hand and clear perspective. Whether in the courtroom, at the negotiation table, or during mediation, Cordell & Cordell is prepared to present a strategy for your unique goals, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. “I’m Allen Korenstein, a Senior Litigation Attorney for Cordell & Cordell’s San Jose office, and I understand firsthand the value of having the right team in your corner.”
A Unique Strategic Approach
As a litigator, negotiator, mediator—and lifelong martial artist—I bring a unique perspective to family law. My training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Aikido has shaped not only my mindset, but also my approach to guiding clients through one of life’s most challenging transitions. Martial arts has taught me the importance of discipline, adaptability, and staying centered under pressure—qualities that serve clients well, especially when emotions run high and the path forward feels uncertain.
Zanshin: Awareness and Adaptability
In the Japanese martial art of Aikido, Zanshin refers to a state of relaxed alertness—remaining aware, adaptable, and focused, even in the midst of conflict. This mindset is just as important in divorce. Whether you’re facing the loss of daily time with your children or navigating the complexities of co-parenting, maintaining Zanshin means keeping your goals in sight while adapting to changing circumstances. It’s a vital balance when emotions run high and the stakes— your children’s well-being, financial stability, and peace of mind—are deeply personal.
Zanshin also helps avoid the trap of target fixation: becoming so focused on one issue, like winning a custody dispute or proving a point, that you lose perspective. In martial arts, fixating on an opponent’s punch may leave you vulnerable to a kick. In divorce, that same tunnel vision can undermine your ability to co-parent effectively or negotiate in good faith.
Through my practice, I’ve seen the value of helping clients cultivate this broader awareness. By staying grounded and focused on long-term goals—like healing, stability, and protecting their children, clients are better equipped to make thoughtful decisions throughout the process.
This approach creates space for clarity, resilience, and ultimately, a more constructive path forward. Whether you’re facing complex financial matters in a high-net-worth divorce or simply trying to find clarity and stability for your family, there is a lot at stake.
Issue Resolution Solutions Tailored to Your Needs
- Mediation and Collaborative Law: These solutions offer confidential, cost-effective paths to resolution—often including private sessions with former family law judges. Both approaches can be especially valuable for clients who prioritize discretion and privacy in navigating their divorce settlements.
- Strategic Litigation: When negotiations break down, strong litigation experience ensures you are effectively and confidently represented—protecting your rights and safeguarding your children’s future.
- Co-Parenting Support: Clients are supported in building healthy communication and setting clear boundaries with their former spouse, helping to create a more stable and supportive environment for their children.
Turning Chaos into Opportunity
Divorce can feel like a storm—disrupting the life you’ve worked hard to build. But through both personal experience and years of guiding clients through this process, I’ve learned that chaos can also be a turning point for growth and renewal.
Specialized Support for Complex Divorces
Cordell & Cordell offers extensive nationwide experience representing founders, executives, and high-net-worth individuals. We understand the unique challenges that come with dividing substantial assets—whether it’s retirement accounts, stock portfolios, or real estate investments.
Our firm is skilled in developing strategies that protect your financial future while aiming for fair, advantageous outcomes. From navigating stock options to addressing deferred compensation plans, we offer tailored solutions designed to minimize tax exposure, preserve value, and align with your long-term goals.
For a dedicated partner in the toughest family matters, Cordell & Cordell is here to help. Schedule a consultation by calling 866-323-7529 or contact us online.
Written by Allen J Korenstein
Allen is an accomplished attorney with a strong dedication to the legal community. He is a member of the Silicon Valley Bar Association and the California Appellate Project, a non-profit law firm, highlighting his commitment to the field. With more than 50 trials to his name, Allen’s extensive experience includes involvement in numerous appellate decisions. Allen is recognized for his success in defending clients in complex cases and his experience with estate planning and blended families. His legal career is marked by impressive achievements, a commitment to justice, and a dedication to making a positive impact on his community. Additionally, Allen brings valuable experience in owning and managing his own law practice. Beyond his legal pursuits, he is a co-owner of Camino Brewing Company, LLC.
Certified Mediator
License
Mr. Korenstein is licensed to practice in California.
Work Experience
Prior to working for Cordell & Cordell Mr. Korenstein worked in family law, child law, divorce law and ran his own firm.
Awards
- 2019 Best of Silicon Valley, Metro, Social Justice Warrior
Associations
- Silicon Valley Bar Association, Member
- California Appellate Project, Member
