Gather information about your situation (where you live, grounds if required, desired outcome)
Check your state/country divorce requirements and residency rules
Choose a divorce type (uncontested, contested, mediation, collaborative, or attorney-assisted)
Prepare key documents (marriage certificate, IDs, financial records, income/tax info, property and debt lists, parenting information if applicable)
Decide on issues to resolve (property division, debts, spousal support, child custody/visitation, child support)
Draft a settlement agreement or proposed terms
File the divorce petition/application with the appropriate court
Pay the required filing fees or request a fee waiver if eligible
Serve the other spouse with divorce papers according to local rules
Complete and file any required forms (financial disclosures, parenting plans, affidavits, responses)
Attend required hearings or mediation sessions
Negotiate and finalize terms (settlement agreement or court orders)
If uncontested, submit the final paperwork for approval
If contested, attend trial hearings as required and present evidence
Review the proposed final judgment for accuracy
Sign and file the final judgment/order
Confirm when the divorce becomes final (waiting periods or finalization dates)
Update legal documents and records (name changes, beneficiaries, insurance, estate planning, banks/credit accounts)
Follow post-divorce obligations (support payments, custody schedules, compliance with court orders)