The first step in the divorce process is, of course, making the decision to end the marriage and finding an experienced divorce attorney who practices in the Jacksonville, Florida, area. Okay, now that you have done that, there are some things that you can do to help make the process go more smoothly.

At one of the first consultations with your attorney -- or even before you contact them -- there are some things that the attorney will need to ensure that he or she has a complete and accurate picture of all assets, liabilities, responsibilities and requirements you may have. Having access to every detail will help you get the divorce settlement you want.

What are some of the documents that should be brought to the table? Gather any paperwork that has any effect on your life. This includes current and past tax records, bank account information, investments, retirement plans, insurance policies, real estate documentation, estate planning documentation, trust agreements, record of gifts or donations you or your spouse made or received and any other records you can think of. You can never be over prepared when it comes to gathering this type of information.

First discuss with your attorney what the best plan of action is for you, under your state law, before making any major changes to your daily life. However, sometimes establishing your individual life can help during the divorce process. This may include getting your own credit card, checking account or savings account. Also, notify your lenders or credit card vendors of your situation so that they may notify you when large purchases are made on your account. Do not be shy about keeping up with both you and your spouse's spending. Again, bring any records with you to your attorney's office.

Collecting documents and records is not the only thing that can help your attorney pre-divorce. In our next post of this two-part series, we will discuss another aspect of preparation.

Source: The Huffington Post, "We're Getting A Divorce, Now What?" Linda Descano, Feb. 1, 2012