This is my second post in my “Understanding Divorce” series. I have previously discussed how understanding Nevada’s divorce process can make your case go more smoothly. Today I will be discussing the benefits of planning ahead, being organized and prepared before meeting with a Las Vegas divorce attorney.
Having a plan in mind before you see your attorney is always a good idea. Being organized and prepared prior to your first appointment will ensure a smoother experience and help your attorney to assess an accurate picture of your situation.
Be prepared to discuss any expectations you have about your divorce. Ask yourself: What is it that I would like to take away from my divorce? If there are children involved, think about what kind of custody arrangement will best suit you and your children. Have an accurate picture of your finances and prepare to provide documentation of your finances when you meet with your attorney for the first time. This will save you time in the long run. You will only be required to provide financial information that is applicable to your situation.
Items you should gather in consulting with a Nevada divorce lawyer
The following are examples of information you should provide to an attorney with whom you will be discussing a Nevada divorce:
1. Bank statements for your checking, savings, brokerage, investment and security accounts for the last six months.
2. Credit card and debt statements for the last six months.
3. Copies of all deeds, deeds of trust, purchase agreements, and escrow documents.
4. Any evidence of property debts for the last six months.
5. Copies of any loan applications signed within the last twelve months.
6. Copies of any promissory notes signed where either party owes money or is to receive money.
7. Copies of any retirement plans.
8. Copies of any life insurance policies and health insurance policies.
9. Last two tax returns.
10. Last two W-2 forms.
Preparation before seeing a divorce attorney will go a long way towards expediting the process of divorce. A contested divorce can be a long and tedious process, the more organized you are, the quicker the process will be.
What to do if you can’t gather all the records you would like to show to your divorce attorney
It is not uncommon for people to not have immediate access to all of the documents above. If you are in such a situation then you should begin the process of getting the records. This does not mean, however, that you need to put off consulting with a divorce attorney. If your situation has deteriorated to the point that it is time to file for divorce then you should begin the process and your financial records can be gathered after your consultation. You will, however, need to begin the process of gathering this information immediately.
Contact me online or by telephone to schedule your initial consultation.