- Gather Up Documents – This part may sound simple, especially if you have a file of
paperwork, but it is best to gather everything as soon as you can because sometimes, you
may need to request a document. This takes time! We have created a list of documents that
you should consider gathering and storing in a safe place. They will be very important for your
case.- Documentation of Assets
- Paystubs
- Bank Statements
- Tax Returns
- Property Tax Forms
- Property Titles (home, automobile, boat, etc.)
- Mortgage Statements
- Proof of Current Income
- Utility Bills
- Credit Card Bills
- Loan Documentation
- Retirement Account Statements
- Life Insurance Statements
- Marriage Certificate
- Make a List of Questions – Writing down a list of questions leading up to your meeting with
your divorce attorney can help you remember things you have thought to ask. Even if the
questions seem meaningless or easy to answer, just ask! We want to clarify all we can to make
an unfamiliar legal system less stressful. Having one list where you keep your questions, via
Notes in your phone or written on a piece of paper, can help organize your thoughts. - Speak with Your Attorney – Your attorney will ensure that you have everything you need
above gathered, give you legal advice, and guide you through the process. Their job is to
create a strategy from the beginning by asking you important questions and analyzing your
input. Everything starts here! Sessums Law Group is on your side. - Prepare Witness List – In some cases witnesses can help bring to light your moral character,
how responsible you are, what your everyday life looks like, and and other qualities that are
important. They can also testify on your behalf by discussing issues within your marriage. Here
is a list of people to think about as potential witnesses. A witness is necessary when
allegations have been made about your partner’s character or your own.- Friends
- Coworkers
- Teachers/Instructors
- Colleagues
- Nannies
- Housekeepers
- Create a Written Summary – This written summary should include all of the basic
information needed (listed below) as well as a general overview. This can help you feel
prepared as well as work through what you are thinking and feeling on paper.- Spouse’s Full Name
- Spouse’s Address
- Spouse’s Social Security Number
- Spouse’s Date of Birth
- Spouse’s Employer/Occupation
- Spouse’s Annual Income
- Children’s Full Names
- Children’s Dates of Birth
- Children’s Social Security Numbers
- Date of Marriage
- Date Your or Spouse Moved Out of Marital Home
- Identify Your Goals – Take some time to think through the situation and realize what your
goals are for your divorce. As you progress through this time, what means the most to you? Do
you want to resolve the issue of what to do with your marital home? Do you want to resolve the
issue of child custody and have legalities in place? Do you want to ensure you receive a certain
amount of compensation? Everyone is different, so understanding your goals can help your
divorce attorney grasp what matters most to you. - Get Support – Don’t neglect your physical and emotional well-being. These cases can be
stressful for all involved. Make sure you are surrounding yourself with people that support you
during this sometimes heavy time. Consider therapy, use self-help resources, and prioritize
your mental health. Delving into your emotions in the appropriate way can help you to deal with
them properly. Avoid making bad decisions that can damage your credibility in court.
These are just seven tips that can help you “create your own luck”! We have many more, but
these are most important in the initial stages. Feel free to give us a call to schedule a
consultation. (813) 212-8330