Today

Don't panic - best decisions are made with a cool, calm head
Sit down, relax, and read the divorce papers several times.
Don't call your spouse in anger - no contact is best for now.
Read up on divorce - knowledge always helps take the fear away.
When you finish the above steps, take a short break and then read all of the divorce papers again until you thoroughly understand what is ahead.
If you have children, do not draw them into the conflict. This is best for your children and will put you in the best position to win custody.
You have 20 days from the date you received the summons to send an answer.
If possible, take tomorrow off and devote some thought to the situation.

Tomorrow

You must decide if you will represent yourself or hire an divorce attorney.
If you want an attorney, start calling and find one that you like.
If you are a do-it-yourself person, continue to read about divorce for 7 more days. You have almost two weeks to act and you must become well informed.
Review the location and amount of all your assets. If possible, remove money from the bank and put it in a place of security. Do not deprive your spouse of necessary funds to live on. That could backfire on you.
Review your credit cards and any other sources of credit. If possible, cancel cards that are joint accounts or remove your spouse's name from the card.
Speed is your best tool - be thorough and act today.
Go into conservation mode and build a rainy day fund. You may soon need it.
Begin to collect all records of assets, amounts owed, property, deeds, and family business records. If you are in the marital home, keep the records in a more secure place, like with a trusted friend.
Call the IRS to find out how to request copies of the last 5 years of tax returns - if you don't already have them.

Next Day

Continue your education. This is one of the biggest and most important projects of your life. Read books and attend seminars. Become an expert.
Make a financial plan or a household budget for the next 12 months. Don't spend unnecessary money.
Get a notebook and a holder for paperwork. Set up a central collection point for all the information you gather during your divorce. Keep a detailed diary and jot down anything you learn from your educational efforts.

Copyright 2005 The Divorce Center P.A.