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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. Use this essential checklist to stay organized and cover all important aspects of your divorce.

Think About Resolving Your Divorce Without Going to Court Reflect on whether you and your spouse can settle matters like alimony, property division, and custody. Agreeing on these issues allows you to bypass court using a DIY divorce service or mediation. Discover more now!

Decide If Hiring a Lawyer Is Necessary While not required, hiring a lawyer safeguards your rights and eases stress. Consulting separate family law attorneys is wise, as they cannot represent both spouses due to conflict of interest. Read more here!

Plan for Your Children’s New Parenting . Parents going through divorce should focus on their children’s welfare. Create a custody plan covering visitation, holidays, and school breaks. Explore child support rules and apply for temporary assistance if necessary. Read more here.

Gather Your Marriage-Related Documents. Gather all marriage-related paperwork, including prenuptial agreements, wills, powers of attorney, and life insurance policies. Secure these important documents in a safe place. Learn more now!

Organize Your Financial Paperwork. List all joint assets and debts, including bank accounts, loans, and retirement plans. Gather tax returns, pay slips, and financial statements. This step is vital for fair asset division. Discover more now!

Collect Additional Important Documents. Collect credit reports, account login credentials, property deeds, and vehicle titles. Holding these papers secures your control over finances and personal data. Learn more here.

Take Steps to Separate Your Life Establish financial independence by creating new bank and credit accounts. Protect your digital privacy by updating passwords and setting up a secure email. Consider getting a P.O. box for confidential mail. Learn more here.

Settle Your Living Situation . Plan your residence for both during and after divorce. If staying in the marital home is not an option, begin searching for alternative housing. Talk to your lawyer about how moving might impact your property claims. Learn more here.

Plan for Employment. Seek employment if you lack a current job. Apply for temporary support if health or parenting stops you from working. Click for more details.

Reach Out If Facing Domestic Violence. Your safety comes first. If you have faced domestic violence, seek a restraining order and reach out to support organizations. Click here for help.

This checklist helps you confidently manage your divorce journey. Be organized, prioritize health, and take action for a brighter future. Gain the strength to make wise choices throughout the process. Understand that every effort leads you to a better future.