Divorce is a major life transition that affects nearly every aspect of your life, from finances and property to parenting and long-term planning. While every situation is different, preparing early can help you protect your interests, reduce stress, and make more informed decisions throughout the process. If you are just beginning to explore your options, it can be helpful to review general information about the divorce process on our Divorce Overview page.
This guide combines the most valuable insights, checklists, and questions from several earlier posts to ensure no important guidance — or organic value — is lost.
Why Preparing for Divorce Matters
Taking time to prepare before or early in the divorce process can help you:
Understand your rights and responsibilities
Organize important financial and personal information
Communicate more effectively with your attorney
Reduce unnecessary conflict and delays
Plan for life after divorce
Key Steps to Take Before Filing for Divorce
Before filing or responding to a divorce, it is important to gather and organize relevant information.
This includes:
Marriage certificates and any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
Bank statements, retirement accounts, investment records, and tax returns
Mortgage statements, deeds, vehicle titles, and property records
Insurance policies
Business records, if applicable
Having these documents readily available can save time and help your attorney evaluate your case accurately.
Understand Your Financial Picture
Divorce involves the division of assets and debts, as well as decisions about support. Taking stock of your finances early can help set realistic expectations.
Consider:
Listing all assets and their approximate values
Listing all debts and ongoing obligations
Reviewing monthly income and expenses
Understanding potential tax implications
Important Questions to Ask Before Moving Forward
Whether you are considering divorce or meeting with an attorney for the first time, asking the right questions can help you make informed decisions.
Key questions include:
What should I expect from the divorce process in my situation?
How long might my divorce take?
What options do I have for resolving disputes outside of court?
How will child custody and parenting time be determined?
How are assets and debts typically divided?
What are the likely costs involved?
Clear answers to these questions can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Practical Tips When Preparing for Divorce
Divorce is emotional, but practical decision-making is critical.
Helpful tips include:
Try to remain calm and avoid making decisions based purely on emotion
Keep communication with your spouse respectful and focused
Be realistic about compromise and priorities
Avoid hiding or delaying financial disclosures
Document important conversations and agreements
Preparing for Divorce When Children Are Involved
If you have children, preparation should focus heavily on stability and consistency.
Consider:
Creating a parenting schedule that prioritizes the children’s routines
Minimizing conflict in front of your children
Keeping adult disputes separate from parenting decisions
Being open to cooperative or mediated solutions
Children tend to adjust better when parents work together and maintain predictable routines.
Planning for Life After Divorce
Preparing for divorce also means thinking beyond the legal process.
You may need to:
Consider new housing arrangements
Reevaluate employment or career goals
Update estate planning documents
Review insurance coverage and beneficiaries
Planning ahead can help reduce uncertainty once the divorce is finalized.
Divorce Preparation Checklist
Use this checklist as a general guide:
Gather all financial and legal documents
Understand your assets, debts, income, and expenses
Consult with a qualified divorce attorney
Identify your priorities and long-term goals
Consider mediation or alternative dispute resolution
Build a support system of trusted professionals and advisors
Final Thoughts
Preparing for divorce may feel overwhelming, but taking thoughtful, organized steps can make a significant difference. The more informed and prepared you are, the better positioned you will be to navigate the process and move forward with confidence.
If you are considering a divorce, there are steps you can take now. Contact The Law Office of Eric C. Cheshire P.A., P.A. at (561) 677-8090. We have over 30 years of experience guiding individuals and families through divorce proceedings.
Additional Reading
7 Things You Should Not Do During Your Divorce in Florida
4 Types of Divorce in Florida: Which Option is Best for You?