Divorce Checklist: What to Do First When Separating
3 sections · Expert-curated · Free
Before Filing
Consult a family law attorney — many off...
Copy all financial documents: tax return...
Open a personal bank account and credit ...
Document assets, debts, income, and mont...
After Filing
Create a custody plan (if children are i...
Update legal documents: will, power of a...
Establish emotional support: therapist, ...
After Finalization
Build new routines for yourself and your...
Update your name on documents if applica...
Review and update insurance policies
Track your progress — assign tasks, check things off, share with family
Get my planBefore Filing
What to do while you are still deciding or preparing.
Consult a family law attorney — many offer free initial consultations
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Copy all financial documents: tax returns, bank statements, retirement accounts
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Open a personal bank account and credit card in your name only
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Document assets, debts, income, and monthly expenses
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
After Filing
Once the process begins.
Create a custody plan (if children are involved)
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Update legal documents: will, power of attorney, beneficiaries
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Establish emotional support: therapist, support group, trusted friends
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
After Finalization
Rebuilding.
Build new routines for yourself and your children
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Update your name on documents if applicable
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Review and update insurance policies
Tap “Get my plan” above for detailed how-to instructions, questions to ask, and insider tips for this step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between mediation and litigation?
Mediation is a cooperative process where a neutral mediator helps you reach agreement. It costs $3,000-7,000 typically. Litigation is adversarial, going through the court system, and costs $15,000-50,000+. Most experts recommend trying mediation first.
Should I move out of the house?
Consult your attorney before moving out. In many states, leaving the family home can affect your claim to the property and may impact custody arrangements. Get legal advice first.
You don’t have to figure this out alone
Get a personalized, interactive checklist that tracks your progress and lets you assign tasks to family members. Free to start.
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