Checklist for Steps When Contemplating Divorce

Getting a divorce is a big decision. Divorce can be difficult emotionally and financially for everyone involved, but being prepared can help minimize any shocks or avoidable disruptions. Whether or not the divorce is amicable can make a big difference in how your divorce process will go, but there are a few aspects to consider regardless. Use this checklist to help prepare to file for divorce.

What to Do Before You File for Divorce

Before taking active steps to end your marriage, take some time to prepare for the divorce process and post-married life. Assess your finances, locate important documents, and determine the next steps for your situation.

Organize Important Documents

When you first meet with an attorney, the process will be quicker and easier if you have certain essential documents, which may include tax documents, bank account statements, and relevant valuations, such as real estate appraisals. Compiling this documentation also allows you to fully understand your assets and financial situation ahead of filing for divorce. If you have been served with documents from the opposing party or their attorney this documentation should also be provided before your consultation.

Make Sure You’re Ready Financially

Review your savings, bank accounts, and credit cards. Even if you maintain a steady income, you may run into unexpected expenses and must prepare for the cost of living independently. Preserve cash resources when possible. While you do not want to rely on credit cards, incurring credit card debt or loans from family is often necessary during the divorce process.

Research Different Divorce Strategies

Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested will impact your strategy and the overall process. In an uncontested divorce, spouses are able to agree on the division of assets and debts, allocation of parenting time and decision making authority, and maintenance and child support, making the overall divorce process relatively smooth and simple. A contested divorce means you and your spouse cannot settle disputes on your own or through mediation, making legal representation even more important.

Take Precautions if Domestic Violence is Involved

Your safety and the safety of your children is paramount. If you have already experienced abuse or worry that your spouse may become violent when you express the desire for a divorce, create a safety plan in advance which may include finding a safe place to stay and ensuring important documents and possessions are with you.

You may also consider requesting a temporary restraining order contemporaneously with filing for divorce.

Make a Plan to Take Care of Your Family

Even when domestic violence is not an issue, going through a divorce can take an emotional toll on all family members involved. Before proceeding with divorce, develop a plan for how to take care of everyone during the difficult process and be ready for tough conversations.

Find Legal Representation

Particularly if you anticipate a contested divorce, you will want to have reliable and knowledgeable legal representation. A family law attorney will be your advocate through the divorce process to help ensure the most favorable outcome possible. Even if the divorce is uncontested, legal representation during the mediation process is necessary to create a thorough and thoughtful agreement.

Cline Caldwell LLP Will Help Guide You Through Each Step of Your Divorce

One of the most important steps when getting a divorce is finding the right legal representation. At Cline Caldwell, LLP, we have over 30 years of combined experience helping Colorado families through divorce and other family law matters.