What Documents Do You Need for a Divorce in PA?

It’s hard for some people to stay organized, even in the best circumstances. And most of us would agree that getting divorced rarely qualifies as “the best circumstances.”

It’s a traumatic, painful experience, but – as any Bucks County divorce lawyer can tell you – it’s one that can be made less stressful when you have the right documents at hand.

These are the documents you’ll need to include during your divorce.

• Income statements for at least six months
• Tax returns, both state and federal, and corporate returns where applicable
• Bank statements, including your checking and savings account info, along with CDs and money market account information, and any accounts for your children, including college savings.
• Statements of employment benefits, including stock options
• Retirement account statements for each spouse, including regular and Roth IRAs, 401(K)s and company pension plans
• Investment statements
• Real estate appraisals, showing the market value of your home, vacation properties, investment properties and vacant land
• Kelley Blue Book listings for all vehicles
• Mortgages
• Credit card accounts
• Information on pending lawsuits
• Student loans
• Any other sort of private loans, including motor vehicle or home equity
• Life insurance and disability insurance policy sheets

These are documents you’ll need to have during a standard divorce proceeding or during mediation.

Why is mediation a good idea? Ask your divorce lawyer: Bucks County courtrooms are filled with couples going through painful, acrimonious proceedings. But with mediation:

1. You won’t be as stressed

A mediator can help defuse difficult situations simply by being present, ensuring that cooler heads will prevail, and keeping angry outbursts to a minimum.

2. It won’t cost as much

Divorces aren’t cheap. By working with a mediator, you’ll be able to arrive at a settlement without spending as much money or time in court.

3. It’s easier on your kids

No matter the outcome of your divorce, it’s going to be tough on your children. As parents, it’s your job to make this process as stress-free as possible for your kids.

A mediator can help you find the best way to communicate and act as co-parents, and create a soothing environment in the event your kids are required to attend a proceeding.

4. You’ll have more control

In a typical divorce proceeding, the judge has a great deal of sway over your final settlement. But with mediation, the two parties have greater control over the outcome of their case.

Whether you decide to work with a mediator, or feel it’s necessary to take your divorce case to court, a Bucks County divorce lawyer from Penglase & Benson can help.

Our team can work with you to make sure your voice is heard no matter which route you take. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.