A Guide to Documents Used in a Michigan Divorce

In addition to being a renegotiation of family structures, divorce is also a complicated legal process. If you are facing the prospect of divorce, it is important to be as prepared as possible.

You should begin preparing for your divorce documents even before filing. This will make the entire process easier.

You can begin by collecting important information. Below, we will examine some of the documents that are useful in Michigan divorces.

Income Documents 

In the process of a divorce, you will need to have income documents available. This will include paycheck stubs for the past year.

If you are self-employed, you will need to provide any documents that detail your income over the past 12 months. This may include:

• Work invoices
• Payment ledgers
• Bank deposit slips
• Bank account statements
• Contract agreements
• Expense documentation

You will also need copies of your tax returns for the past five years. This is true whether you and your spouse filed separately or jointly.

For any business that you own, gather the tax returns. Financial statements or documents that were used to secure a loan may be useful, as well.

Ultimately, you will need to provide any and all documents that can help to determine your net worth.

Debt 

During a divorce, you will also need to provide evidence of your family’s debts. Prepare an itemized list of all of the debt in your name. You should include debts held jointly or held independently by your spouse.

This can include outstanding charges or bills, such as:

• Credit card debt
• Accounts payable
• Student loan debt
• Unpaid medical bills

Calculating your debt is an important part of the financial picture that will need to be addressed during the divorce.

Real Estate Information 

You will need to provide documentation that details any real estate holdings that you possess. This can include:

• Deeds
• Abstracts
• Descriptions of property
• Mortgage statements
• Purchase agreements

It is also important to gather any paperwork that details refinancing for your home loans, if applicable.

Employment Information

When you’re filing for a divorce, your occupation and income may be relevant in determining the division of marital property. You should be prepared to provide:

• Job description
• A current resume
• Job-related benefits
• Hourly rate, salary, or commission rate

If you have more than one job, you may need to offer this information for each of your positions. This information will help your Michigan family law attorney to negotiate effectively on your behalf.

Documents Related to Custody 

In families with children, custody decisions are one of the most significant parts of a divorce. Gather the following documents related to child custody:

• Report cards
• The child’s medical records
• Homework or school papers that you have signed

It will also be important to have evidence of any private school or daycare costs.

Contact Gucciardo Family Law 

Even the most amicable divorces can be difficult. It is crucial to find a compassionate and effective family law attorney.

At Gucciardo Family Law, we have years of experience helping families through difficult times. Our accomplished family law attorneys care deeply about every client. Let us help you move forward. Contact Gucciardo Family Law today to schedule your no-cost initial consultation.