What Should I Do First? A Divorce Check ListAttend A Free SeminarServicesWho Gets WhatWho Gets WhatWho Gets WhatChild Custody

What Should I do First? - A divorce checklist

  1. Attend our seminar or view the DVD - to start the learning process.

  2. Prepare for 3 Divorces-

    3. Emotional
    1. Be Completely honest with yourself and evaluate your current situation. If you could work it out, would you want to?
    2. Talk with someone (professional or other) who can help you evaluate your life and your decision to divorce.
    3. Do not surprise your spouse.
    4. Talk openly with your children, allowing them to vent their own feelings and frustrations. Do not ever allow them to become a bargaining point in the negotiations later on.
    5. Don’t be afraid to hire a professional counselor or therapist for emotional support.

    Financial
    1. Establish bank accounts and credit cards in your name only.
    2. Copy account statements, paycheck stubs, tax returns and other important papers and keep them is a safe place - just in case the originals disappear.
    3. Prepare an "after-divorce" budget - know what your bills will be and how you are going to pay them.
    4. Accumulate money for living expenses during the divorce process and to pay for any divorce expenses.
    5. Close joint checking accounts, credit cards, and other joint liabilities.
    6. Request a joint credit report to help you identify unknown liabilities. Make sure you have your spouse’s permission before making such a request.
    7. Have a professional evaluate all real property for current and projected future values. Maybe you don’t want that house after all...

    Legal
    1. Do some research so you are familiar with the court system: http://www.superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/familyCourt/index.asp
    2. Learn about the self-help center for additional helpful AZ specific information: http://www.superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/ssc/info/gen_info.asp
    3. Decide if you are going to retain an Attorney, Mediator, Document Preparer, or go it alone.
    4. If you decide to hire someone, interview several Attorneys, Mediators, or Document Preparers before selecting one.

  3. Other Considerations
    1. Your case is won or lost based on your level of preparation and the professionals you hire to educate and represent you.
    2. Everyone’s situation is different. Some are simple while others are very complex. Do not miss the opportunity to open your eyes about the divorce process and attend our free seminar.