When first discussing divorce, your head may be swimming with confusion. Not only are there the day-to-day decisions to be made about taking care of the children, the bills, and the simple logistics, but there are the legal concerns as well. How do you keep your head from exploding with all the stress of a divorce proceeding?
Start with a basic checklist. The following is an overview of items to consider as you move along in the legalities of divorce. Of course, your situation will determine what applies and you will always do best to check with your attorney and tax accountant through each step.
Let's begin with the very basic information. You'll need these items written clearly on a document and/or copies of documentation to present your lawyer:
- Your full name, date of birth, and social security number
- Your spouse's full name, date of birth, and social security number
- Any prior names of you and your spouse, including birth names and previous married names -- this includes all aliases
- Full names, birth dates, and social security numbers of all children; this includes any children that you and your spouse are legally responsible for from other marriages
- A copy of your marriage license showing the date and location
- A copy of any previous marriages, divorces, or annulments
- In some states you may need a certified copy of each spouse's birth certificate
- Proof of residency in state where filing petition for divorce; this may be a copy of your drivers license
- Current addresses and phone numbers for each spouse
- Names, addresses, and phone numbers for legal counsel of both spouses
- Who is paying the legal fees?
- If there was a prenuptial agreement, have it available
After establishing your identity, history, and residency with these items, the next most likely information your attorney will ask for is your financial papers, including information about wages. You'll want to gather as much information as you can before you walk into the lawyer's office.
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