Posted by Must-Have Divorce Checklist: 10 Crucial Steps to Get Ready for Your Divorce
Navigating a divorce can be stressful, but proper planning makes it easier. This essential divorce checklist provides 10 crucial steps to help you stay organized and ensure nothing important is overlooked.
Consider Whether You Can Resolve Your Divorce Without Court Before proceeding, think about whether you and your spouse can agree on key issues such as alimony, property division, and child custody. Agreeing on these issues allows you to bypass court using a DIY divorce service or mediation. Learn more here!
Consider Whether You Need to Hire a Lawyer You aren’t obligated to hire a lawyer, but doing so can protect your interests and reduce anxiety. Consulting separate family law attorneys is wise, as they cannot represent both spouses due to conflict of interest. Find out more today!
Prepare for Parenting Changes If You Have Minor Children Parents going through divorce should focus on their children’s welfare. Plan a custody arrangement covering visits, holidays, and school breaks. Understand child support requirements and think about requesting temporary support. Read more here.
Compile Important Marriage Papers. Assemble important marital paperwork, such as wills, prenups, and life insurance files. Keep these documents in a secure location. Learn more now!
Organize Your Financial Paperwork. Document all joint financial items, such as savings, debts, and retirement funds. Gather tax returns, pay slips, and financial statements. This action ensures a fair division of property. Learn more today!
Gather Other Essential Documents. Assemble credit information, passwords, property deeds, and vehicle documents. Protecting these documents maintains your financial and personal security. Discover more now.
Start Creating Financial Independence. Establish financial independence by creating new bank and credit accounts. Secure your online presence with updated passwords and private email access. Obtain a P.O. box for secure mail. Click here to discover more.
Decide Your Living Arrangements Choose your living arrangements for now and after the divorce. Seek alternative housing if you can’t stay in the marital home. Consult your attorney to understand how moving out could affect your property rights. Learn more here.
Plan for Employment. Begin job hunting if you are unemployed. Ask for temporary support if health or childcare hinders work. Click for more details.
Reach Out If Facing Domestic Violence. Safety is a priority. If you have faced domestic violence, seek a restraining order and reach out to support organizations. Click here for help.
Using this checklist guides you through divorce with clarity and assurance. Remain organized, focus on your well-being, and proactively shape your future. Gain the strength to make wise choices throughout the process. Remember, every step you take now brings you closer to a fresh start.