How to Prepare for a Divorce

Making the decision to divorce is never simple. Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for a while, or perhaps your spouse has already brought it up. Either way, preparing for divorce isn’t just about filing paperwork—it’s an emotional, financial, and legal process that takes careful planning.

So, where do you start? Gathering important financial documents is a good first step, but there’s more to consider. You’ll need to think about your rights, your future finances, and if you have kids, how co-parenting will work. The more prepared you are now, the fewer surprises you’ll face later.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—how to manage emotions, protect your assets, and set yourself up for a smoother transition. Divorce is tough, but with the right approach, you can move forward with confidence.

Next: Understanding the Divorce Process

Before making any big decisions, it’s important to understand how the divorce process actually works. Let’s take a closer look at what to expect.

Understanding the Divorce Process

Divorce isn’t just about signing papers and walking away—it’s a legal process with several moving parts, and it doesn’t happen overnight. If you know what to expect, you’ll feel more in control and better prepared for what’s ahead.

Filing for Divorce

In Arizona, the process kicks off when one spouse (the petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court. This document lays out the basics—requests for property division, child custody, and even spousal support if needed. Once it’s filed, the other spouse (the respondent) has to be officially served with the paperwork. From there, they have 20 days to respond if they live in Arizona and 30 days if they’re out of state. If they don’t reply within that window? The court may grant a default divorce, meaning the petitioner could get most (if not all) of what they asked for.

Waiting Period and Negotiations

Arizona law requires a mandatory 60-day waiting period after the respondent is served before anything can be finalized. Think of it as a built-in cooling-off period. During this time, both spouses work through key issues like:
– Dividing assets and debts
– Determining spousal maintenance (alimony)
– Figuring out child custody and parenting arrangements

Many couples choose mediation, which allows them to negotiate terms without going to court. It’s often less stressful—and definitely less expensive—than battling things out in front of a judge. But if major disagreements arise, especially over child custody or finances, a trial might be unavoidable.

Finalizing the Divorce

If both spouses reach an agreement, they submit their settlement to the judge for approval. If they can’t agree? The case moves to trial, where a judge makes the final call on everything from property division to parenting time. Court battles can be long and costly, which is why most people try to settle beforehand. Once everything is ironed out, the court issues a divorce decree, making everything official. This document finalizes financial responsibilities, parenting plans, and any other agreements made during the process.

Understanding how divorce works is just one part of preparing for it. But what about everything you’re feeling? Next, let’s talk about handling the emotional side of divorce—because legal steps are only half the battle.

Emotional Preparation for Divorce

Divorce isn’t just a legal process—it’s an emotional rollercoaster. Even if you’re the one calling it quits, the flood of feelings can catch you off guard. One moment, you might feel relieved; the next, sadness creeps in. And that’s okay. Preparing yourself emotionally won’t erase the tough moments, but it can help you navigate them with more clarity and resilience.

Acknowledge Your Emotions

Let’s be honest—divorce comes with a whirlwind of emotions. You might feel grief, anger, anxiety, or even guilt, sometimes all at once. Instead of trying to shove those feelings aside, let yourself experience them. Healing isn’t a straight path, and there’s no “right” way to feel. Talking things through with a close friend, jotting down your thoughts in a journal, or working with a therapist can help you process everything without feeling stuck.

Lean on Your Support System

You don’t have to go through this alone. Whether it’s family, friends, or even an online support group, having people who truly listen and care makes all the difference. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a counselor who specializes in divorce. Sometimes, getting an outside perspective can shed light on things in ways you hadn’t considered—and give you the reassurance that what you’re feeling is completely normal.

Take Care of Yourself

Stress has a sneaky way of creeping into every part of life during a divorce. That’s why self-care isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep (even when your mind won’t stop racing), eating meals that actually nourish you, and finding ways to release tension. A quick walk outside, deep breathing exercises, or even blasting your favorite music in the car can help clear your head when emotions start to weigh heavy.

Focus on the Future

It’s easy to get caught up replaying the past—but what if you started looking ahead instead? What kind of life do you want post-divorce? Maybe it’s financial independence, exploring new hobbies, or building a solid co-parenting plan. Setting small personal goals gives you something to work toward and reminds you that this chapter is just one part of your story—not the whole book.

Next up: financial preparation—because protecting yourself and planning for life after divorce is just as important as managing emotions along the way.

Financial Preparation for Divorce

Divorce isn’t just about ending a marriage—it’s about untangling your financial life, too. And let’s be honest, money can be one of the most stressful parts of the process. The good news? Taking a few smart steps now can help you avoid headaches later and set you up for financial stability.

Gathering Financial Documents

Before anything else, start collecting important paperwork. Whether you’re the one handling the bills or not, having these records in order will make things smoother when it comes time to divide assets or discuss spousal support. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bank statements (checking, savings, investment accounts)
• Credit card statements – Know what’s owed and who is responsible.
• Mortgage and loan documents – Home equity, car loans, personal loans—get it all together.
• Tax returns – At least three years’ worth is ideal.
• Pay stubs and income records – Your salary (and your spouse’s) will factor into support decisions.
• Retirement and pension accounts – These can be major assets in divorce settlements.
• Insurance policies – Health, life, home, auto—anything with financial value.

Getting ahead of this now can prevent surprises down the road. If you’re unsure where to start, consider making a checklist or speaking with a financial planner who specializes in divorce cases.

Budgeting for Life After Divorce

Let’s face it—going from a shared household to managing everything solo can be a big adjustment. Even if you handled the finances before, your expenses are about to change. To avoid financial strain, take control of your budget now:

1. Figure Out Where Your Money Is Going – Look at your current spending habits—essentials like rent or mortgage, groceries, utilities, plus extras like dining out or streaming services.
2. Estimate Future Costs – Will you be moving? Paying for new health insurance? Handling child-related costs alone? Factor it all in.
3. Cut Back Where You Can – Now’s the time to trim unnecessary expenses (like that gym membership you never use).
4. Build a Safety Net – A little extra in savings can go a long way during uncertain times.

Even if money feels overwhelming right now, having a plan gives you something solid to work with—and that alone can bring some peace of mind.

Protecting Your Financial Interests

If you and your spouse share bank accounts or credit lines, pause before making any big moves. Arizona follows community property laws, meaning assets and debts are typically split equitably—but that doesn’t always mean 50/50. Before withdrawing funds or closing accounts, talk to an attorney so you know exactly what’s legally allowed (and what could get you into trouble).

Next up: Legal Preparation for Divorce—what steps should you take to protect yourself before filing?

Legal Preparation for Divorce

Divorce isn’t just about emotions and finances—it’s a legal process, too. And if you’re not prepared, it can quickly turn into a confusing, overwhelming experience. Taking the right legal steps from the start can make things easier and help you avoid unnecessary headaches later.

Consulting with a Divorce Attorney

Before you file, it’s a good idea to sit down with a divorce attorney who knows Arizona’s family laws inside and out. Even if your split seems amicable, having legal guidance ensures you don’t miss anything important. A consultation can help you:

• Get familiar with Arizona’s no-fault divorce process and residency requirements.
• Decide whether mediation or litigation makes the most sense for your situation.
• Understand your rights regarding property division, child custody, and spousal support.
• Spot potential legal issues before they become major obstacles.

Think of it as an investment in your future—you wouldn’t go into a business deal without understanding the terms, right? The same logic applies here. If you’re unsure where to start, consider scheduling a consultation with our firm, where we can answer your questions and help you build a solid strategy tailored to your needs.

Understanding Your Legal Rights and Responsibilities

Divorce requires big decisions that will shape your future, so it’s important to know where you stand legally before making any moves. Here are some key areas to focus on:

• Property Division: Arizona follows community property laws, meaning most assets and debts acquired during your marriage are split 50/50. But not everything is up for grabs—inheritances or gifts received by one spouse might be considered separate property.
• Spousal Support (Alimony): Depending on factors like income differences and how long you were married, one spouse may need to pay alimony to the other. Understanding how Arizona courts determine this can help you plan ahead.
• Child Custody & Parenting Time: If kids are involved, you’ll need a plan for legal decision-making (custody) and parenting time. The sooner you work this out, the less stressful it’ll be for everyone—especially your children.
• Court Filing Requirements: Filing for divorce isn’t as simple as signing a few papers. There are deadlines, petitions, and required responses that must be handled correctly to keep the process moving smoothly.

Missing deadlines or overlooking key legal details can lead to delays—or worse—decisions that don’t work in your favor. That’s why having an experienced attorney by your side is so important.

Next Steps: What Comes After Legal Preparation?

Once you’ve got the legal groundwork covered, it’s time to focus on another major piece of the puzzle—co-parenting considerations if children are involved. Planning ahead now can make the transition easier for your kids and help set the stage for a smoother post-divorce life for everyone involved.

Co-Parenting Considerations (If Children Are Involved)

Divorce is tough—there’s no way around it. But when kids are involved, the stakes feel even higher. No matter what’s happening between you and your ex, your children’s well-being has to come first. The goal? To create a co-parenting arrangement that keeps life as stable and conflict-free as possible. It won’t be perfect (because, let’s be honest, what parenting plan ever is?), but with some effort, you can build something that works for everyone.

Talking to Your Children About Divorce

Breaking the news to your kids is one of the hardest parts of divorce. How you handle this conversation can shape how they process everything that follows. Keep it simple, honest, and age-appropriate. Most importantly, reassure them—again and again—that both parents will always love them, no matter what. If possible, have this talk together as co-parents so your children see that you’re still a team when it comes to them.

Expect questions. Expect big emotions—fear, sadness, maybe even anger. And honestly? That’s normal. Give them space to express their feelings without rushing to “fix” everything. Just listen. Sometimes, that’s all they need. If they seem to be struggling, consider bringing in a child therapist or family counselor to help them work through their emotions in a healthy way.

Creating a Parenting Plan That Works for Everyone

A solid parenting plan can make all the difference in reducing future conflict and misunderstandings. Here are some key things to iron out:
– Custody Arrangements: Will you share joint custody, or will one parent have primary custody?
– Visitation Schedules: Be specific about weekdays, weekends, holidays—even birthdays. The more clarity now, the fewer arguments later.
– Decision-Making Responsibilities: Who gets the final say on big decisions like education, healthcare, or extracurricular activities?
– Communication Guidelines: Set some ground rules to keep conversations respectful and focused on the kids—not past relationship drama.

And here’s a reality check: No parenting plan is set in stone. Kids grow, circumstances change, and sometimes what worked before just isn’t cutting it anymore. Be open to adjustments when needed—and if things get complicated legally, a child custody attorney can help ensure your rights and your child’s best interests are protected.

Next up: Common mistakes people make when preparing for divorce—and how you can avoid them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing for Divorce

Divorce is a major life transition, and let’s be honest—it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. When emotions are running high, people often overlook important details or rush into decisions they later regret. Knowing what to watch out for can help you sidestep unnecessary stress.

1. Rushing Into Decisions

It’s natural to want to get through the divorce process as quickly as possible, but making snap decisions can come back to haunt you. A hastily signed agreement might seem fine now, but will it still work for you a year down the road? Take your time, weigh your options, and don’t let impatience push you into choices you’ll regret later.

2. Letting Emotions Take Over

Divorce stirs up all kinds of emotions—anger, sadness, frustration—but letting those emotions drive your decisions is rarely a good idea. Fighting just for the sake of it or trying to “win” the divorce can drag out the process and cost you more in legal fees. Instead, focus on what really matters: securing a fair outcome that allows you to move forward with your life.

3. Ignoring Financial Realities

Divorce isn’t just an emotional split—it’s a financial one too. Many people underestimate how much their expenses will change after separating. Have you thought about how you’ll handle rent or mortgage payments on your own? What about insurance or retirement savings? Getting a clear picture of your finances now can prevent major headaches later.

4. Skipping Legal Advice

Trying to navigate a divorce without legal guidance is like going on a road trip without a map—you might get where you’re going eventually, but you’re bound to hit some rough patches along the way. Even if things seem amicable, consulting with an experienced divorce attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly missteps.

Avoiding these common pitfalls can make all the difference in how smoothly your divorce unfolds. Up next, we’ll walk through the final steps to take before moving forward, so you can start your next chapter with confidence.

Next Steps and Final Thoughts

Divorce isn’t just about filing paperwork—it’s about preparing yourself for a major life shift. And let’s be honest, that can feel overwhelming. But taking things step by step can make the process far more manageable.

Start by gathering your financial records, thinking through what you want for your future, and making a plan for how to get there. If you haven’t already, now is the time to speak with a divorce attorney. Even if you’re unsure about moving forward right away, getting legal advice early can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your interests.

If you have children, their well-being should be front and center. How will you break the news? What kind of co-parenting arrangement makes the most sense? These are big questions, but tackling them with care now can make things easier down the road.

Finally, don’t go through this alone. Lean on friends, family, or even a professional counselor—whoever helps you feel supported. Divorce is tough, no doubt about it, but with the right preparation, you can move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Need guidance on what to do next? Strong Law is here to help. Reach out today to discuss your situation and take control of your future.

FAQ Section

Thinking about divorce comes with a lot of questions—some you might not even know to ask yet. Here are a few of the most common concerns people have when getting ready for this big life transition.

How long does it take to get divorced?
It depends. In Arizona, there’s a 60-day waiting period after filing, but that’s just the minimum. If things are straightforward and both spouses agree on everything, it could be over in a few months. But if there are disputes over assets, custody, or other issues, it can drag on much longer—sometimes a year or more.

What financial documents should I gather before filing?
The more organized you are, the smoother this process will be. Start pulling together bank statements, tax returns, pay stubs, credit card bills, mortgage documents, and retirement account records. Think of it like creating a financial snapshot—you’ll want a clear picture of what you own and owe before negotiations begin.

How can I protect my assets during a divorce?
First things first: don’t make any big financial moves without legal advice. That means no sudden transfers of money or selling off property. Arizona follows community property laws, so assets acquired during the marriage are typically divided equally. A divorce attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure you’re not left at a disadvantage when it comes to property division.

Divorce is never easy, but a little preparation goes a long way. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what steps to take next, reach out to Strong Law today—we’re here to help you navigate this process with confidence.