Once you’ve decided to file for divorce, you may be in a hurry to get the process over with and start the next chapter of your life. However, dissolving a marriage means settling a wide variety of financial and child custody issues, so taking the time to gather as much information as possible can streamline negotiations and help you define your goals. Here are some key documents to collect before meeting with a divorce attorney.

5 Documents to Collect Before Filing for Divorce

1. Proof of Income

Many divorce issues are determined primarily by your income, as well as that of your spouse, so collect as much information as possible. Along with the last two years of tax returns, get recent federal W-2 forms from all of your employers, including those of your spouse.

2. Account Statements

A fair division of the marital assets begins with a thorough, accurate accounting of your resources. A divorce attorney will want to see copies of your checking and savings account statements, along with any retirement or investment accounts.

3. Debt Statements & Bills

Dividing the marital estate also means determining who will be responsible for any joint debts. Gather statements detailing all outstanding debts, including your credit cards, mortgage, lines of credit, and auto loans.

4. Prenuptial Agreement

If you signed a prenuptial agreement before getting married, bring a copy of the document to your divorce attorney. They will be able to ensure the document is valid and explain how the agreement will likely impact your final settlement.

5. A List of Your Priorities

Knowing what you expect to get out of the divorce settlement will inform negotiations and help your attorney develop a long-term strategy. Before the initial consultation, figure out what assets matter most to you and which you would be more willing to compromise on for the sake of a faster settlement.

If you’re planning on filing for divorce, let Mingus Law Office represent your interests and guide you through what is often a difficult and confusing legal process. He’s been representing clients in Columbia and  throughout central Missouri since 1993, helping resolve even the most complex, challenging legal problems. Visit him online to learn how he can help during your divorce, or call (573) 443-5202 to schedule an initial consultation today.