If you are considering taking on an attorney to help you through your divorce process in South Carolina, it would be helpful and easier for you to be well prepared. Here are some documents you should gather.
Documents related to your income
For the family law judge to decide on property division, alimony and child support, they must understand your financial position and employment status. And thus, your attorney may need to look into them to argue in your favor of what you should rightfully get in your divorce.
The documents that you may need to bring for this include:
• Your pay stubs from your employment over the last year
• Your partner’s pay stubs for the same period
• Business forms or tax returns related to your self-reported income, if you are self-employed
• Your state and federal tax returns
Documents related to joint financial accounts and assets
The court will also need to get an understanding of all the joint accounts and assets that you and your partner have. This is so they can determine what is marital property and what should be divided between the both of you.
Your attorney may ask for:
• Joint bank statements
• Retirement account documents or statements
• Documents detailing any investments made during the marriage
• A list of all debts you and your spouse owe, including credit card statements, mortgage documents, car loans, etc.
Documents related to your children
If you have children, your final divorce decree must also address how they’ll be taken care of after your split. Thus, the court will decide on where they’ll stay, the amount of time you’ll have with them, and the money they need for their upbringing.
The documents needed for this are:
• Your child’s birth certificate
• Your parenting agreement or custody order (if you have one)
• A calendar detailing your work schedule and the time you’re available to spend with your children
• Any document that can prove any acts of abuse or neglect by either parent
This is not a conclusive list. Depending on how unique your marriage is, you may need more documentation.