18-point divorce checklist for a smooth separation

Wondering how to get divorced? The process can seem daunting and complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve put together an 18-point divorce checklist with all the things you’ll need to consider for an amicable separation.

Following the simple list of practical tasks on our divorce checklist will help you become an effective co-parent, manage your finances and complete the right legal steps – leaving you to focus on building a positive future apart.

Consider this your 'to-do list' for divorce.

Decide on a parenting plan

When going through a divorce, one of your most important priorities is the wellbeing of your children. Creating a clear and cooperative parenting plan can help shield your children from stress and ensure that both parents remain actively involved in their lives.

1. Agree on where your children will live.
2. Make a plan for how and when they will see both of you. Remember to talk about special occasions: decide how to arrange Christmas, birthdays and holidays.
3. Talk about how your children’s lives will be financed and decide who will pay for what, including any school fees.
4. Sort out how and when other family members, such as grandparents, will see your children.
5. Discuss any parenting values or rules for raising them and make sure you are both on the same page.

Figure out your finances

Financial discussions during a divorce can be one of the most sensitive parts of the process. It's important to make clear and fair decisions regarding your shared assets, debts and ongoing expenses.

6. Decide whether you are keeping or selling the family home.
7. If you are keeping the home, decide which of you will live in it and who will live elsewhere.
8. Work out how you will be paying for both homes.
9. Agree on how to divide up your personal property – from the car to the kettle.
10. Work out what assets, investments and savings you have and decide how to divide them.
11. Work out what debts you have, like credit card bills or overdrafts, and decide how to split those too.
12. Make a plan for how to pay for any divorce fees.

Prepare and submit the legal paperwork

Understanding the key paperwork involved in the divorce process will help you stay organised and on track. From submitting your initial divorce application to finalising important financial agreements, these steps will make sure that your divorce is officially recognised.

13. Submit your divorce application.
14. Apply for a conditional order.
15. Apply for a final order.
16. Submit a consent order if you want to make the agreements above legally binding. You can do this after the conditional order (formerly decree nisi) stage.
17. Decide whether you want to make or change your will.

Think about who you need to tell

After finalising your divorce, it’s important to tell relevant organisations of your change in marital status.

18. Get in touch with all the organisations that need to know that your marital status has changed. These may include:

• benefits office
• your council
• mortgage lender
• utility companies
• tax office
• banks or building societies
• credit card provider
• house insurer
• life insurer
• student loan company
• pension provider
• GP surgery
• dentist
• optician
• any schools or nurseries

Still not sure where to begin?

Making a parenting plan and deciding how to split your home and assets is definitely easier said than done. We appreciate that while a divorce checklist can put your mind at ease, the process can be emotionally difficult and complex for those involved.

If you’re still not sure how to prepare for your divorce or get started, you can book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our Divorce Specialists. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the process amicably, with clarity and peace of mind.

Not only do we offer advice for couples, we can also provide support for your children and pets.

FAQs

How do I prepare my own divorce checklist?

If you follow the above steps, you should be able to create your own divorce checklist. If you would like personalised advice that takes into account your preferences and circumstances, please book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our expert Divorce Specialists.

What is the first thing to do when getting a divorce?

Children should always be your primary concern when formulating a to-do list for divorce. You need to decide where they will live and how you will care for them.

What can you not do during a divorce?

There are many different ways to go about getting a divorce. The measures above will help set you off on the right foot and make the process smoother and more amicable. If you need more bespoke advice or would prefer to speak to a human, then book a free 15-minute consultation. For more information, read five tips for an amicable divorce.

Is the divorce checklist different for international divorces?

Yes, international divorces may involve additional considerations, such as different legal requirements in each country, citizenship issues and cross-border financial matters. It's important to understand the complexities of your area to ensure that the divorce process runs smoothly and meets the laws of all relevant jurisdictions.