The law requires both spouses must have access to their financial information. This information will be used to determine an appropriate property division, child & spousal support, and attorneys fees and costs.
Find out what property you and/or your spouse own and how much it is worth.
Most people find this procedure very invasive of their privacy. In addition the process can be quite expensive as valuation experts and attorneys are often used to answer those questions. How much you spend on discovery will depend on the size and complexity of your estate and the cooperation level of your spouse. If paid a large amount to retain an attorney, this is part of the reason why.
Save costs by gathering your own information.
Be active in your divorce. Save yourself attorney’s fees by gathering easily obtainable information such as bank records, titles, and tax returns.
When you meet with your attorney come prepared with as much financial information as possible.
This may save the costs of meeting again later with your attorney. If you lack any information, try your best to complete any financial questionnaire given to you. Such a questionnaire will likely resemble Judicial Council Form FL-150 and FL-142. Download those forms and gather the relevant information before the meeting. If you are not used to handling the finances or do not have easy access to important info, your attorney may conduct formal discovery.
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