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Dealing with divorce: Where to start

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Solicitor visit checklist

You can get the most out of your first meeting by ensuring that your solicitor has the relevant information before you actually meet. This is not only a valuable exercise for you in taking stock of your own situation it will also save valuable time and therefore money. Here is a list of some of the things you can do:

Prepare some brief background details; names, addresses, dates of birth, the names, dates of birth and schools of any children, a very brief financial and employment history.

Draw up a schedule of all assets and liabilities setting out all that you know, or even half know. Include everything you know about your partner's finances. If you have any documents, bring them with you to the first meeting.

Get valuations of any assets. Life companies will give surrender values of policies, pension companies will give valuations of pensions, known as cash equivalent transfer values or (CETVs). Don't worry if you don't have all the details, these can be filled in at a later stage.

Consider asking a few local agents round to value any property. If it is likely that your house may have to be sold, look round and find out how much you will need to re-house.

Prepare a schedule of outgoings setting out current and future needs. Start with the essentials such as mortgage payments and bills, but include lifestyle expenses such as holidays and clothing. One of the things your solicitor will want to know is what sort of lifestyle you had, and will want to discuss with you whether or not the family finances are going to be able to continue to sustain it.

List all of your bank or building society accounts. At some point you will be asked to provide 12 months worth of bank statements, so keep copies. List your shareholdings if you have any and all of your pensions and bring any documents you have relating to your pensions.

You will need to bring ID documentation. You will need one piece of photo ID showing you are who you say you are (passport, driving licence) and a second piece confirming you live where you say you live (bank statement, utility bill, credit card statement or driving licence if you have a passport for the photo ID). Don't forget your marriage certificate. Solicitors need it to draft the petition. If you have lost it, a copy is easily obtained.

Sharon Bennett, is a partner at Bross Bennett family law solicitors.

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