If you are considering a divorce but haven’t yet told your spouse or made a final decision, now is the time to get some paperwork in order. Once your attorney gets a full financial picture from your documentation, he or she can give you an honest perspective about how your divorce is likely to proceed.
If the divorce involves a large amount of assets or businesses, it’s especially important for your attorney to have access to necessary personal and financial business documents. Gathering documentation early can help prevent delays and can help you present a strong case in front of the court.
Some of the documents your attorney will want to see are any prenuptial agreements affecting your divorce, proof of your income and net worth, such as bank statements, money market statements, and income tax returns. Your attorney will need to see statements from investment accounts and retirement accounts. Copies of life insurance policies and any estate planning documents you have prepared can also be helpful.