Make a detailed list of assets and debts

When you have your first appointment with an attorney, be prepared with detailed lists. Don't guess. That wastes your time and theirs, and costs you extra money. It is also important to list debts. Be sure to list the loans from Mom and Dad.

Prepare detailed expenses

The one area that may be argued about the most is the expenses for each spouse. (This may be one of the reasons you are getting divorced in the first place!) Show your actual expenses as you confirm them through check registers and credit card statements. This is to support why your expenses are so high in certain areas.

Accumulate cash

Once you think a divorce is looming, start putting away bits of cash. You may need to hire an attorney and/or other experts and you will need the money to pay them.