Information and statements concerning bank accounts, mortgages, loans, investments accounts, credit cards, pension and other employer benefits may be obtained by contacting the specific institution or employer. If you can not obtain certain documentation your divorce attorney will seek such information during the legal proceedings. Put aside money and watch the joint accounts and credit lines. Even if a motion is made to the Court for financial support and fees, funds may be needed to tide one over pending the decision and enforcement of that decision. It is also important to possess your own money for emergencies, to pursue further education, employment, or a business and to improve the quality of one's life.
Assets tend to disappear during a family crisis and the break-up of a marriage.
Find out the balances of all accounts and notify all institutions and brokers not to release funds without your approval. You can withdraw funds and utilize it for reasonable expenses or put it in a separate account for safekeeping. Maintain careful records on any funds withdrawn from accounts because you will have to provide full disclosure. If you borrow money from such sources, be aware of the interest rate on the loan. Establish credit in your own name before the divorce because it may be more difficult to do so after you are divorced.