Because divorce affects a person’s life so pervasively, it is important to plan for the changes that life as a single person will bring. A useful tool for a divorcing individual is to make a checklist.

Because divorce affects a person’s life so pervasively, it is important to plan for the changes that life as a single person will bring. A useful tool for a divorcing individual is to make a checklist.

 

Among the first considerations on your checklist should be personal property you will retain. List all of your valuable items, and keep the list in a safe place. You need to include serial numbers on any electronics. A very useful safeguard is to take photographs or videotape. Make sure you enable the date on the camera.

 

It is important that you review and maintain your personal security in communications, banks accounts, etc. It is a good idea to rent a post office box for all private letters. Make sure you have secured your private passwords on ATM cards, bank accounts.  This is especially true for email to avoid any later claim that you gave up your right to privacy by sharing your password or sharing your email account with your family. Secure your own credit cards.  Ask your estranged spouse to return house and car keys if you have an agreement for exclusive use of the residence or car.

 

You need to gather all financial records. Include all bank statements, insurance policies, retirement account information, etc. Much of this information will be needed by your San Diego family lawyer during your divorce case.

 

In most cases, it is useful to let your employer know that you are going through a divorce. This will help alleviate issues that might arise from missed work for court dates. Offer to make up lost work time.

 

You should plan how you are going to support yourself once the divorce is final. If you have a job already, but it does not meet your financial needs, consider advancement or a career change. Update your resume and obtain letters of recommendation from previous employers.

 

If you facing a divorce, plan for your future needs and secure an attorney who will effectively represent your interests. Call the law office of San Diego family lawyer Lisa Zonder to schedule a free initial consultation.