Divorce is not only an emotional experience, but it is also a complex legal process that involves a substantial amount of paperwork. One of the best ways to ensure it goes as smoothly and efficiently as possible is to collect all the necessary documents you will need to move forward, particularly those pertaining to your finances. Collecting these ahead of your initial consultation with your attorney will help speed things along.
Illinois Divorce Documents
No two divorces are alike and, therefore, not everyone will have to collect the same documents in preparation for their divorce. However, we prepared a list documents that are commonly necessary in most cases.
Here is a list of documents you may need for your divorce in Illinois:
- State, local, and federal income taxes for the past five years
- Proof of your income and your spouse’s income
- A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, if applicable
- Bank statements
- Pension statements
- Certificates of deposit
- Will or trust
- Stock portfolios and options
- Credit card statements
- Mortgages
- Property tax statements
- Bills, including utility bills, school tuition, and more
- Health insurance policies
- Car insurance policies
- Personal property appraisals
- A list of all personal property, including artwork, furniture, jewelry, and other valuables
- Powers of attorney
- A list of the contents within safety deposit boxes
Of course, this is list is not exhaustive, so your attorney can provide further guidance on any additional documents you will need for your divorce. If you have trouble collecting some of these documents, your attorney may also advise you on how you might be able to obtain them. The important thing is to get the ball rolling, so you can avoid wasting any time as you pursue this new chapter in your life.
Reach Out to Our Team for the Support You Need When Preparing for Divorce
If you are getting a divorce, preparing the proper documents will help move the process along more efficiently. You should also hire an experienced family law attorney to represent you.
At the Law Offices of Jonathan Merel, P.C., our experienced team can provide the compassionate and knowledgeable legal support you need to secure the best possible results for your family law case. We understand how difficult this experience can be and will do everything possible to assist you.
Call our law office today at (312) 487-2795 to set up an initial consultation with a member of our team to discuss the details of your divorce and learn more about the documents you must collect for your divorce.