Document Checklist for Getting a Divorce

Document Checklist for Getting a Divorce

Regardless of how long you were married or the amount of your estate and assets, there are legal issues which must be resolved in your divorce case. Having the appropriate supporting documents in place can help you feel more in control of the situation, while ensuring you get the settlement or judgment from the court that you are entitled to. At Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., we work with you, guiding you and helping you gather the evidence necessary in your case. The following outlines documents to begin assembling that can help you be better prepared.

Seven Types of Documents You May Need in Your Divorce Case

Under the Michigan Revised Statutes, there are a variety of issues that may arise over the course of your divorce case. These include disputes over any pre or post-marital agreements, negotiations over marital property settlements, the possibility of spousal support, and child custody and support agreements pertaining to children from the marriage.

Even in uncontested divorce cases, all of the facts in your case will need to be carefully documented. In the event there are disputes, the more items you have documented, the better your eventual divorce judgment is likely to be. You should consider gathering paperwork in the following seven categories:

• Income: This includes pay stubs for you and your spouse, profit and loss statements for businesses you own, and copies of past tax returns.

• Real Estate: This includes legal descriptions of any property owned, mortgage statements, refinancing documents, and information regarding taxes.

• Financial Accounts: Collect current and past statements from joint checking, savings, and investment accounts.

• Debts: Make a list of credit cards, loans, and other debts, and provide statements to show account balances.

• Pension and Retirement Benefits: Collect statements of pension benefits and any retirement accounts owned by you or your spouse.
• Personal Property: Make a list of all personal property, including cars, furniture, artwork, and antiques. Gather receipts to show what you paid and current valuations.
• Estate Planning: Collect life insurance policies, trusts, wills, and other estate planning documents.

Reach Out to Our Michigan Divorce Attorneys

While the above may seem like a long list, our divorce attorneys are here to help you every step of the way. Reach out and contact Iafrate & Salassa, P.C. and request a free consultation to discuss the options available in your case. We work hard to help ensure your rights are protected and that you get what you are entitled to in your divorce settlement. Call or contact our office online today.