Checklist - If You Are Thinking About Divorce

• Gather and organize financial information and records including such things as bank and brokerage statements, tax returns, insurance policies, real estate/automobile titles, loan information, etc.  Your attorney will need this information to estimate the complexity of your case. 
• Calculate your marital net worth by taking the value of all of the assets owned by both you and your spouse and deducting any liabilities.  This will help you set realistic expectations about what your financial situation will be like after a divorce.
• Review your tax returns and address any problems with your accountant.  If you have any tax years for which you have not filed a return, get those returns filed.
• Obtain a copy of your credit report, see a credit counseling if necessary to address credit problems, and make sure that your have credit established in your own name.
• Prepare a budget to estimate what you will need to meet your living expenses during a divorce.
• Schedule a check up with your doctor to rule out any unknown medical conditions, or unforeseen medical expenses.  If you have been waiting to complete any medical procedures, get them scheduled and completed.
• Educate yourself about the divorce process.