The Essential Divorce Checklist: Steps to Prepare for Your Divorce

Many factors contribute to the high divorce rate in the US. One of the most significant is the change in social norms over time. In the past, divorce was considered taboo. It was something that was only discussed in hushed tones behind closed doors. Today, divorce is much more accepted. It’s become quite commonplace.

When going through a divorce, it can be challenging to keep track of everything that needs to be done. This divorce checklist will help when you want to prepare for divorce and make sure that you have all your bases covered, from the legal to divorce. It can be done by sending a certified letter or serving paperwork to the emotionally charged conversations.

1. Determine if you are eligible for a divorce

In order to file for a divorce, you or your spouse must meet the residency requirements of the state in which you plan to file. You will also need to show that there are grounds for divorce, which vary from state to state but typically include adultery, abandonment, or physical or mental abuse.

2. Gather all the necessary paperwork

Once you have determined that you are eligible to file for divorce, you must gather all the necessary paperwork. It includes divorce forms, which can be found online or at your local courthouse, and financial documents such as tax returns, bank statements, and 401(k) statements.

3. Choose a divorce lawyer

It is vital to have a divorce lawyer as legal representation when going through a divorce, especially if contested issues such as child custody or division of assets. You can ask friends or family for referrals or look for a lawyer specializing in divorce law.

4. Notify your spouse of your intention to divorce

Once you have gathered all the necessary paperwork and chosen a divorce lawyer, you will need to notify your spouse of your choice to divorce. It can be done by sending a certified letter or serving paperwork to the other person.

5. Begin the divorce process

The next step is to begin the divorce process by filing the necessary paperwork with the court. Once this is done, you will need to attend a hearing, at which time the judge will determine whether or not to grant the divorce.

6. Dividing assets

After the judge has granted the divorce, you will need to begin dividing assets. It includes property such as homes and cars, and You and your spouse will need to agree on who will get what; if you cannot reach an agreement, the judge will decide for you.

7. Child custody

If you have children, you will also need to agree on child custody. It includes deciding who will have primary physical custody of the children, and If you cannot reach an agreement, the judge will arrange for you.

8. Finalizing the divorce

Once all the assets have been divided and child custody has been decided, the court will finalize the divorce. A divorce decree will be issued, and you will no longer be married.

It is just a general overview of the divorce process; for specific information, you will need to consult with a divorce attorney in your state. But following these steps will help you to be prepared for what lies ahead.