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It's no secret that divorce can be a stressful experience. One way to minimize that stress is to properly prepare before you file your initial divorce paperwork. Here are a few important tasks to include on your to-do list prior to filing.

What Steps Should You Take Before Filing for Divorce?

1. Compile Paperwork

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The courts rely on documents, records, and other paperwork to fully understand your assets and finances and to determine how everything should be divided in the settlement. Supplying the courts with the paperwork they need to make these important decisions will save you considerable time and worry. Take the time now to gather all crucial records, including financial statements, tax returns, paycheck stubs or W-2s, and retirement plan documents. It's also a good idea to make a list of all jointly held assets and debts, as this will make it easier to fill out your financial disclosures later.

2. Consider Child Custody Arrangements

Either together or through your attorneys, work with your spouse to set custody goals and design mutually agreeable custody arrangements. Review your work schedule and other commitments to come up with a plan that allows you fair and equitable time with the kids. If two soon-to-be ex-spouses can work out these arrangements between themselves, they will save themselves a lot of stress later. The exact details may need to be amended, but if you can come up with a basic blueprint for custody, things will go smoother for all parties involved.

3. Separate Your Life

Most divorcing spouses find it helpful to start extricating their lives from one another as soon as possible. This is a good protective measure, as well as a practical one. If you have a joint bank account, open a bank account in your name only. If you will remain living under the same roof until the divorce is finalized, open a post office box to receive mail from your lawyer and the courts. If you are on a spouse's health insurance policy, start shopping for coverage of your own. Establishing your independence now can be empowering and set the stage for the next chapter of your life.

 

An attorney will help you navigate the divorce process from start to finish. Knochel Knochel & Darus has been serving clients in Elko and throughout Nevada since 1987. They offer representation in family law cases, personal injuries, estate planning, and other legal issues. Call (928) 444-1000 to arrange a consultation or visit their website to browse their practice areas.

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