Discovery is part of the pre-trial phase of the case where each party requests documents and information from the other side. This process allows both parties to obtain information necessary to reach a fair and equitable settlement. If a settlement is unsuccessful, the information exchanged will be used at trial.
WHAT WILL I NEED TO PROVIDE TO MY ATTORNEY?
The following is a checklist of documents you should compile for your attorney:
- List of all bank accounts. Provide account numbers, current balances, and statements for the last three months for each account. (savings, checking, CD’s, credit unions)
- Copies of titles and registrations for all vehicles, boats. etc.
- Blue book values on all vehicles and boats. Print reports for private party values for each vehicle and/or boat.
- Warrant Deed and statements reflecting mortgage balances owed for all real estate.
- Copy of Appraisal for home (if within last 3 years).
- Copies of life insurance policies.
- Most recent property tax statement and any recent appraisal reports for all real estate.
- Retirement account statements (401k’s, IRA’s, 403B’s, pensions, profit sharing, etc.).
- Statements for investments (stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc.).
- Information for inheritance received during the marriage.
- List all credit cards and other debts (mortgages, car loans, home equity lines of credit) indicating whether joint or individual, and balance owed, and provide copies of statements for the last three months for each.
- Documents for all other indebtedness.
- Any financial statements recently prepared (ex: for loan applications).
- Recent pay stubs for both spouses.
- Recent credit report to ensure that all debt is accounted for in your settlement.
- The last three years’ tax returns with W-2’s and schedules attached.
- Business interests, corporate stock certificates, etc.
- Franchise agreements.
- Employment Contracts.
- Lease agreements.
- Copy of household budget if used.
- Prenuptial or post-nuptial agreements.
If you have children under 18:
- Verification of yearly daycare costs
- Information on, or copy of, current health care cards
- Cost of employer provided health insurance with breakdown for costs for self and cost for self with family
CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED DIVORCE ATTORNEY IN GRAND RAPIDS, MI
Divorce can be emotional and messy, and it’s natural for anyone going through a divorce to want to protect their financial interests. Maintaining an objective view of the situation can be difficult when you are struggling with complex emotional issues and personal tensions in your divorce. As an experienced Michigan divorce lawyer, Schmitt Law, PLLC can help you maintain control over your property in divorce, and against taking on responsibility of debt that may not be marital. We will provide detailed guidance and support throughout every step of the process. The right attorney can increase the likelihood of you securing a favorable outcome to property and debt division in your divorce.
Laurie Schmitt of Schmitt Law, PLLC has years of experience representing clients in a wide range of difficult divorce cases. We understand the financial concerns our clients often have regarding their property ownership rights and the doubts they often experience when it comes to property division in divorce. If you are seeking a divorce, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Contact Schmitt Law, PLLC online or by calling (616) 608-4634 for a consultation today.
