If you find yourself considering a divorce, here are a few simple suggestions to help get you ready.
First, consider your options. Do you want to pursue mediation, collaboration or litigation? Mediation and collaboration involve working together with your spouse to come to an agreement on the outstanding issues in your case. Litigation involves making arguments in court and letting a judge decide what will happen in your case.
Second, begin gathering your financial information. Before you start your divorce, you need a clear picture of where you and your spouse stand financially. One of the primary goals of the divorce process is an equitable division of the marital assets and debts. In order to do this, it is important for you to know what is owned and what is owed by you individually, your spouse individually, and you both together.
Start by drafting a summary of what you own, both individually and as a couple. While some assets are obvious, such as the marital home, vehicles, and financial accounts, some are not (including valuable artwork, retirement accounts, inheritances, and assets brought into the marriage.) Make a list of all assets owned and gather the documentation of each asset. This includes any and all deeds, bank statements, appraisals, insurance information, etc. List each asset, the present value, when and where the asset was purchased, and whether it was purchased with joint or separate funds.
