Janet Welton Law, Charlotte, NC Divorce Attorney

Planning Ahead

Be very careful about making any decisive moves before you consult an attorney. Some actions that may seem inconsequential could have significant, long-lasting consequences.

  1. Make an inventory of all contents of the Marital Residence – go room by room listing everything worth $50 or more.  Assign a current value (not a replacement value).
  2. Make a list of all other Marital Assets - Vehicles, boat, camper, savings accounts, bonds, whole life insurance, stocks, pensions, IRA, 401(k), frequent flyer miles, etc.  (include address/account numbers)
  3. Make a list of all unsecured debt - Credit cards, personal loans, etc.  (include addresses/account numbers)
  4. Obtain copies of Financial Records - Bank statements, credit card statements, loan statements, mortgage statements, pension, IRA, 401(k), life insurance policies, stock holdings, paycheck stubs, etc.
  5. Tax Records – Make copies of your last 3 years filed tax returns.
  6. Social Security Numbers - Record yours, spouse’s and children’s social security numbers.

MAKE SURE TO KEEP ALL COPIES IN A SECURE PLACE (not in your home or car).