Five Tips for Preparing for Divorce

 Posted on November 13, 2025 in Divorce

If you are thinking about divorce, you are probably feeling anxious and unsure about what comes next. That is completely normal. Divorce affects your finances, living situation, and even your daily routine. The good news is that you can take steps now to make the process smoother and less overwhelming.

At Pesce Law Group, P.C., our Naperville divorce attorneys have nearly two decades of experience helping clients prepare for major life changes. These practical steps can help you protect yourself and move forward with confidence when you file for divorce in 2025.

Get Financially Organized

Before filing for divorce, take time to really understand your finances. Go through your bank accounts, mortgages, retirement plans, insurance policies, tax returns, and credit card statements. Create a list of all assets and debts in both your name and your spouse’s name.

In Illinois, marital property is divided equitably under 750 ILCS 5/503, which means the division must be fair. Having clear information helps your attorney ensure all assets are properly valued and nothing is overlooked.

Protect Your Access to Important Accounts

During divorce, access to shared accounts can become a problem. Some spouses close accounts, hide money, or rack up debt without telling the other. Protect yourself early by making sure you have your own login information to every account.

If you share joint credit cards, watch transactions and avoid adding new charges. You may want to open an individual account in your own name for direct deposit of your paycheck or to build independent credit.

Find Your Personal Documents

Your attorney will need certain documents to represent you. These may include: 

• Your Social Security card or number 

• Driver’s license

• Marriage certificate

• Your children’s birth certificates

• Any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements

• Copies of property deeds, loan documents, and car titles

Keep these documents in a safe but accessible place, such as a secure folder or digital storage with password protection. Having everything ready will save time once your case begins.

Plan for Living Arrangements

Deciding where to live during and after your divorce is one of the biggest practical questions you will face. Some couples stay under the same roof temporarily, while others separate right away. Each option has pros and cons.

If you have children, stability is especially important. Courts in Illinois prioritize their best interests when determining parenting time and living arrangements. Think about what will keep your children’s routine as consistent as possible while also maintaining your own safety and emotional well-being.

Hire an Experienced Naperville Divorce Attorney 

Even when a divorce starts off well, it can quickly become complicated. Having an experienced attorney ensures that your rights are protected and that you do not make decisions that hurt you financially or legally later on. Look for someone who will explain each step clearly, listen to your concerns, and help you set realistic goals.

At Pesce Law Group, P.C., our DuPage County divorce attorneys have nearly twenty years of experience guiding clients through every stage of divorce. We understand how stressful this process can be and are here to provide both practical advice and steady support. Call 630-352-2240 today to schedule your free consultation.