There are various indications it is time for a couple to divorce. Some common signs include the spouses no longer communicating properly or one partner not respecting the other.
One spouse may be ready to move on, but divorces often last a long time. It takes a while before the couple can even get to court. You can help expedite the process by ensuring you have all pertinent documents readily available beforehand. Before you submit the divorce paperwork to the court, ensure you have these documents or at least know where you can get them.
Crucial documents
When it comes to divorce, you want to provide as much information as you can. During your first visit to a divorce attorney, you should provide as many of these documents as you can:
- Proof of your and your spouse’s income(s)
- Individual and business income tax returns dating back for the last three to five years
- Prenuptial agreement
- Bank statements
- Pension statements
- Certificates of deposit
- Mortgages
- Stock options and stock portfolios
- Trusts
- Retirement account statements
- Utility bills and other relevant bills, including medical and tuition
- Loan documents
- Credit card statements
- Property tax statements
- Life insurance policies
- Benefits statements
- Employment contractors
- Monthly budget sheet
- Wills, living wills and powers of attorney
- List of contents you have in any safety deposit boxes
- List of all personal property you own together, such as jewelry, clothing and paintings
Not every couple will need to provide every single one of these documents. Conversely, some couples will need to provide much more. You need to be completely open and honest with your attorney, and you do not want to hide any assets. The other spouse may bring these documents to the forefront when you try to hide them, and that only delays the divorce process further. Additionally, if you suspect your spouse may hide assets, then you need to inform your attorney of your suspicions.