Dissolving a marriage requires patience and paperwork. The legal process becomes less difficult for both parties when divorce attorneys file their petitions to separate. While every case is different, you should plan to gather the following documents when preparing for your divorce.

What Divorce Attorneys Need to File Clients’ Divorces 

Legal Documents

To efficiently start the process, divorce attorneys need their clients’ marriage certificate, and any prenuptial agreement, separation agreements, wills, or power of attorney they made. Lawyers also want birth certificates of minor children born of the marriage, and adoption papers if one of both spouses adopted any children.

Show your attorney any child support or spousal support orders from current or previous marriages and criminal or civil orders related to domestic violence, spousal or child abuse, or neglect. If either or both of you are naturalized citizens or have immigration papers, your lawyer likely wants to see them.   

Financial Documents

Your divorce attorney needs copies of your and your spouse’s tax returns for the previous two or three years, most recent pay stubs, and other proof of income. Employment contracts, government and private benefits statements, insurance policies, pension statements, and monthly budgets help determine issues such as child support and division of assets. You also need proof of debts, such as student loans, car loans, home mortgages, credit cards, and medical bills. Gather additional proof of assets such as stocks, bonds, and retirement accounts for your lawyer. 

Property Lists

It’s wise to make a list of property you owned before the marriage and personal assets you received during the marriage. You should include items acquired during the marriage in which you claim ownership, including real estate, jewelry, business interests, and intellectual property.

Divorce attorneys at Bitar & Bitar, LLP in Westmoreland, PA, have the experience to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Since 1974, these accessible and friendly lawyers have served clients effectively throughout western Pennsylvania, providing personal attention and skillfully guiding them through the difficult process of divorce. For more about their family law services, visit their website. Call (724) 339-1025 today for a confidential attorney consultation.