Preparing For Divorce Checklist 

What You Need To Know

​

Once you've made the decision to file for a divorce; there's a few things you need to prepare yourself for the process.  Below is a general list to get you started.  Please feel free to contact our office with additional questions. Call 817-377-1077.

​

If you find that you are experiencing emotional problems, please employ a professional counsellor for your personal benefit. A counsellor can help you with emotional problems much more effectively than your Family Law Attorney. Be honest with yourself and seek the help you deserve.

​

Filing for a divorce to shake up your spouse in order to save the marriage is not always the best option. Filing for a divorce rarely saves the marriage. This tactic can cause the other spouse to become more hostile, therefore, causing more damage to the relationship. The filing of a divorce should be done with great care, consideration of all aspects and the understanding that if you ask for a divorce, you will likely get one.
 

Attorney and Client

Help us help you. This is your case and your life, not your attorney's. Although we are here to help in any way we can, your specific knowledge of the relationship, assets, debts, and many other aspects are very important. Doing your due diligence by keeping us informed, providing and keeping reports, records of any changes of behavior or finances, and many other factors are very important during your case.  Be Informed

It is important that your attorney understand exactly what you want. You should be as informed and involved in your case as possible.  It is equally important that you understand exactly what the attorney can and cannot do for you. Do not hesitate to ask your attorney questions if you feel it could benefit or hinder your case.

 

Keep a File

Establish a file in which to keep your divorce related documents. Please bring this file with you each time that you visit your attorney's office. Have a special folder in your file of notes, questions, documents or statements of items that may have changed in that time period. Including communication items from email, social media, text and the like.

 

Keep it to Yourself

These days it is so easy to vent your frustrations to the world. The various types of social media is a dangerous place to discuss anything, much less something that could affect you and your families lives. We advise that you do not discuss with anyone...period. If you must, then discuss it with a trusted family member or a professional counsellor but NEVER on social media.

 

Tell Your Attorney the Truth

Be totally honest with your attorney at all times with every detail. It is equally important that you give him all information which may help your case or that might be harmful to your case. We are not here to judge or scold you, we are here to help you. Any time you are places under oath, you will be required to tell the truth. The truth does not need to surprise your attorney, if the attorney knows in advance, he will know how to navigate through the murky waters.

​

Information Gathering

At the heart of any lawsuit will be the facts. Your attorney knows the law, has the years of experience to guide you through it all and get you the best possible outcome for you and your family. You, however, have knowledge of your situation, relationship and your property. It is up to you to fully educate your attorney on these subjects. Before you meet with your attorney it is a good idea to have knowledge of assets and debts. Make a detailed list of these items and any identifying factor for each. Below is an example to guide you. If you cannot obtain the information before the first meeting, please make it a priority to obtain this information as quickly as possible.

 

1. Real Estate - Include addresses and legal description which can usually be found on your deed, original purchase contract or online from your county tax assessor. This needs to include your primary home, business, investment properties, vacation homes/condos and recreational properties including lake homes, farm or ranch land.

2. ​Vehicles - The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) will be needed for all vehicles. This includes not only the cars you drive but any recreational vehicles such as RV's, boats, jet skis, classic cars, UTV's, personal aircraft and others

3. ​Accounts - Bank, Savings, Retirement, Investment, Insurance, Mortgages, IRA's, CD's and credit cards are the most common. Please note the account numbers of each or provide statements if possible.

4. ​Miscellaneous - Other items of value are often overlooked in these times such as heirlooms, antiques, collections or collector items, art, etc. Do a walk thru of your home and list items that has significance importance to you. If applicable, write down make, model, and serial numbers. If none, write a detailed description and take a photo.

​

Applying a few simple steps to preparing for Divorce can save a lot of heartache and confusion and possibly money later on.  Call Mark Lane Law Offices today to book your free consultation.  Call 817-377-1077 now.