During a divorce, there are a lot of things to keep track of such as financial records, transcripts, bills and receipts and lots of legal documentation. In fact, keeping track of all of this can almost be like a full-time job in itself.
But the important step of collecting and organizing all information relevant to your relationship is vital to the success of your case. After all, you’re likely to lose all credibility with a judge or mediator if the answer to every question in your direction is: “I’m not sure” or “I don’t remember”.
Collect your financial documents
Make a list of the most important financial documents, such as year-end statements, credit card accounts, mortgages, pension statements, etc., and collect them all together. Having a clear understanding of your financial situation is necessary in order to ensure that your spouse or their legal team won’t try to manipulate the numbers to their own benefit.
Have a folder and filing system
Purchase some folders with dividers and organize all your documents so that you can quickly and easily reference them as needed. Again, this might be a tedious process but simply being able to come up with information as needed over the duration of the case will be more than worth it in the end. It will also reduce your legal fees as your counsel will not have to keep following up with you for documents.
Make printed copies of digital communication
From social media outbursts to private emails, it’s a good idea to make a copy so that important information that could swing a case doesn’t get erased.
Make Backups
Make copies of the most important documents and give them to either your lawyer or a trusted family member where your spouse won’t be able to locate and potentially destroy them.
Lastly, remember to work together with a Family Lawyer like those at Epstein & Associates if you have any questions about any part of the process. They can give you necessary legal guidance about what you should be doing to prepare for your case and how you can act early to make sure all the pertinent information is quick and easy to access.