Are you going through a divorce? Or do you know someone who is? There are many things that need to be considered, including the kids and other family members. One of the major decisions you will have to make is who will gain custody of your children. Experiencing a divorce can probably be among the most upsetting and emotional experiences of your life. It’s common to be stressed because the procedure might be difficult and drawn out. This divorce planning checklist will help you determine what your options are, along with what needs to happen next.
Divorce planning Checklist
Use the following areas as your divorce planning checklist. You can always refer back to the specifics of each step as needed.
1. Examine if you require the counsel of an attorney
No state compels you to engage a Keller divorce lawyer, but it may make logical sense for the couples to speak with their own attorneys before starting the divorce or approving the MSA. Although hiring lawyers will increase the expense of your divorce, they may ultimately save you anxiety and preserve your rights.
2. If you have children under 18, get ready for the new parenting plan
Parents going through a divorce have a lot to consider, but this is an excellent place to start.
- Draw up a plan. Discover the custody procedures in your state, then start drafting a suggested custody plan that specifies the attendance schedules for the kids, as well as holidays, summer vacations, and other important dates.
- Make a calendar. Make a calendar so you can record the amount of time the kids spend with each parent. Include problems with communication, transportation, postponed appointments, or costs you’ve incurred.
- Recognize child support. Start thinking about whether you’ll be required to provide or receive child support following the divorce.
3. Gather Marriage Records
Gather documentation for your marriage and financial planning, then make a file for it.
- Contracts. Obtain copies of all property-related paperwork, including prenuptial and postnuptial contracts.
- Marriage certificate. Collect your marriage certificate, and store it somewhere safe.
- Term life insurance. Obtain copies of each spouse’s life insurance policies.
4. Assemble key financial documents
List all the necessary vital financial documents.
- Assets: Create a list of all of your shared property, along with any automobiles, banking information, credit card debt, medical expenses, retirement savings, shares, investments, and any items you think the judge will want to see.
- Debts: You should look for proof of your combined debts, which may include mortgages, car loans, pension scheme loans, and college loans.
- Pension plans: Find out as much as you can about any retirement or pension accounts that either spouse accumulated throughout the marriage.
- Pay data: Make copies of your spouse’s W-2s or other pay stub data if you have access to it and give them to your lawyer.
5. Select Your Living Situation
Many divorcing spouses opt to remain in their current residence throughout the divorce because they cannot be able to pay two mortgages or two rents. If cohabiting is not a possibility, you must decide who will live in the marital residence while the divorce is being processed by the court. If you can’t come to an agreement, you may need to approach the court for permission to use the house exclusively while the judge determines how to allocate the property later.
Closing Thoughts
This list isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a good brief guide to a divorce planning checklist. Keep in mind that there are many other factors that may affect your divorce, and these guidelines won’t apply to everyone. The information contained here is intended for informational purposes only. Please seek professional help if you feel you might be at risk for domestic violence in America.
