Deciding to file for divorce is never easy. For many, it’s a decision that comes after months of careful thought and emotional reflection. If you’ve reached the point where you truly believe your marriage has come to an end, it’s essential to understand the steps you should – and shouldn’t – take to navigate the process effectively.

When handled properly, divorce can be less stressful, less costly, and more amicable for everyone involved. By following key recommendations early on, you may be able to reduce conflict and create a smoother transition for yourself, your spouse, and your family.

Divorce is a legal process that dissolves a marriage, but it often comes with emotional challenges. Disagreements and heightened emotions are common, which is why having experienced legal support is so important.

At DM Cantor‘s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group), our divorce attorneys are here to guide you through each step of your case. When appropriate, we can help resolve matters outside the courtroom through methods like mediation or collaborative divorce – options that can be more efficient and less confrontational than litigation.

However, not all divorces are suitable for alternative dispute resolution. Situations involving domestic violence, child abuse, substance abuse, or hidden assets often require court intervention. In those cases, you need strong representation from attorneys with extensive trial experience.

Preparing for divorce should begin before you file paperwork or discuss your intentions with your spouse. DM Cantor‘s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) knows the strategies that can help you avoid common pitfalls and protect your rights. With the right approach, your divorce can be handled with greater care and less conflict –  for everyone involved.

What to Do Before Filing for Divorce in Arizona

Before discussing divorce with your spouse or submitting a petition to the Superior Court, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect your financial and legal interests. Proper preparation can help streamline the divorce process and safeguard your assets. Here are key actions to take before you file:

Gather Essential Financial Documents

One of the most important things you can do before filing for divorce is to collect and organize all relevant financial documents. This information will be critical for financial disclosures and for your attorney to prepare your divorce filings. Try to obtain:

• Tax returns from the past three years
• Bank statements from the last 12 months
• Most recent statements for all credit accounts
• Copies of property deeds and vehicle titles (individually or jointly owned)
• Latest pension, 401(k), and IRA account statements for both spouses
• Recent statements for any taxable brokerage accounts
• Business tax returns for any jointly or individually owned businesses
• Current insurance policy documents (life, health, auto, etc.)
• A documented inventory of art, collectibles, or other high-value items
• Credit reports from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion)

Collecting these documents before initiating the divorce conversation is crucial. Once divorce proceedings begin, it can become more difficult to access shared records—especially if your spouse becomes uncooperative. These materials will also be required for mandatory financial disclosures during the divorce process.

Meet with a Financial Advisor Before Starting Divorce Proceedings

Divorce can have a significant impact on your finances – often in ways people don’t anticipate. Before initiating the process, it’s wise to consult with a financial advisor. Bring all of your key financial documents so the advisor can help you understand how your financial situation may change post-divorce.

A financial advisor can assist you in:

• Creating a realistic post-divorce budget
• Building a savings plan
• Minimizing the impact on your credit
• Preserving your lifestyle as much as possible

Important: Do not meet with the financial advisor you and your spouse may already share. Choose a new, independent advisor to ensure your privacy. When you hire an attorney, let them know you’re also working with a financial advisor – these professionals can collaborate to help you navigate tax considerations and other financial implications.

Review and Clean Up Your Social Media Accounts

Social media is often used as evidence in Arizona divorce cases. Posts, photos, or comments can easily be taken out of context – or used against you in matters like custody or financial disputes.

Here are some steps you should take before filing for divorce:

• Remove any content that could reflect poorly on you, such as posts related to partying, spending, or new relationships.
• Avoid discussing the divorce or your spouse online in any way.
• Update your privacy settings to prevent others from tagging you or posting on your profile without approval.
• If in doubt, take it down. If something would be embarrassing or difficult to explain in court, it’s best not to leave it visible.

While it might be difficult, consider stepping away from social media entirely during your divorce proceedings. Taking a break can help you avoid unnecessary complications and stay focused on what matters most.

Consult an Experienced Divorce and Custody Attorney Familiar with Arizona Law

Before discussing divorce with your spouse, it’s important to meet with an experienced Arizona divorce attorney. The lawyers at DM Cantor‘s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) can provide early guidance to help you avoid common missteps that may negatively impact your case.

At your consultation, be prepared to bring:

• The financial documents you’ve gathered
• The name and contact information of your financial advisor
• Your spouse’s contact information
• Social Security numbers for you, your spouse, and your children (needed for court filings)

By seeking legal advice early, you’ll be better positioned to protect your rights and move forward with confidence.

Open Your Own Bank and Credit Card Accounts

Separating your finances from your spouse’s is one of the most critical – and often challenging – aspects of divorce. Start taking steps now to establish financial independence.

Here’s what to do:

• Open a personal bank account in your name only
• Apply for a credit card in your own name if you don’t already have one
• Close or separate shared credit cards: If possible, pay off any joint balances or transfer them to individual accounts
• Remove your spouse as an authorized user on your accounts to prevent future charges

These proactive steps can help prevent financial complications as your divorce progresses.

What to Do After Filing for Divorce

Once your divorce petition has been filed and the case is underway, there are several key actions you should take to help ensure a smoother process:

• Stay organized and keep track of all court dates and legal documents
• Continue communicating with your attorney and financial advisor regularly
• Follow all court orders and temporary agreements related to custody, support, or property
• Avoid confrontations with your spouse – especially in front of children or on social media
• Focus on your well-being and surround yourself with supportive people

Divorce can be emotionally and financially complex, but with the right team and preparation, you can navigate the process with greater clarity and confidence.

Hire an Attorney Experienced in Divorce and Family Law

While it is legally possible to file for divorce on your own (pro se), doing so is generally only advisable if you and your spouse have no children, minimal assets, and a completely amicable relationship. In most cases – especially those involving children or shared assets – it’s in your best interest to retain an experienced divorce attorney.

When children are involved, Arizona courts focus on outcomes that serve the child’s best interests. If your case includes sensitive issues such as domestic violence, substance abuse, or child endangerment, legal representation is critical.

Additionally, if you suspect your spouse may be hiding assets or transferring them to family or friends, the attorneys at DM Cantor‘s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) can help protect your rights. Our team will ensure that all necessary documents are completed accurately and will represent your interests in court or during alternative dispute resolution proceedings such as mediation or collaborative divorce.

Request Temporary Orders When Filing for Divorce

At the time you file your petition for divorce, you may also need to request temporary court orders. These orders can establish immediate, short-term arrangements while the case is pending. The court may grant temporary orders for:

• Parenting time (custody and visitation)
• Legal decision-making (custody authority)
• Child support
• Spousal maintenance (alimony)
• Temporary division of assets and debts

These orders remain in effect until the court issues final, permanent orders at the conclusion of your case.

Consider Freezing Your Credit

To protect yourself financially during your divorce, consider placing a freeze on your credit. This precaution can prevent anyone – including your spouse – from opening new accounts in your name. In contentious divorces, it’s not uncommon for a spouse to accumulate debt or open credit lines out of spite. A credit freeze helps safeguard your financial future.

You can freeze your credit by contacting each of the three major credit bureaus:

• Equifax
• Experian
• TransUnion

If you need to access your credit while the freeze is in place, you can temporarily lift it through the respective agency.

Include All Agreements in Your Settlement

If you and your spouse are able to reach a settlement, make sure that every agreement is clearly documented in your written settlement agreement. Avoid making side deals or informal arrangements – if it’s not in writing and included in the official agreement, it won’t be enforceable by the court.

What Not to Do Before, During, and After Your Divorce

There are several actions that can create unnecessary complications, increase conflict, and drive up the cost of your divorce. Avoid the following behaviors to help ensure a smoother process:

Avoid Emotional Conflict

Do your best to stay calm and avoid emotional arguments with your spouse at every stage of the divorce. While emotions often run high, it’s important not to engage in name-calling or speak negatively about your spouse – especially in front of your children. If your spouse tries to provoke you, don’t take the bait. Keep your focus on protecting your interests and prioritizing your children’s well-being.

Don’t Announce Your Intentions Prematurely

Avoid telling your spouse that you plan to file for divorce before you’re fully prepared. Doing so can lead to serious consequences – your spouse might accumulate debt in your name, empty joint bank accounts, or even leave the state with your children. Instead, take the proper steps to prepare quietly and strategically, as outlined in the previous sections.

Don’t Delay Requesting Temporary Orders for Yourself and Your Children

If you don’t request temporary court orders for parenting time, legal decision-making, and child support, you risk your spouse withholding your children during the divorce process. These orders help establish clear expectations and protections while your case is pending.

If your spouse earns significantly more than you, it’s also important to request temporary spousal maintenance to help cover your living expenses during the divorce.

Divorce is rarely easy, but taking proactive steps can make the process smoother and less stressful.

To learn more about preparing for divorce, contact DM Cantor‘s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) at 602.254.8880 to schedule a consultation.