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Separation Checklist
by FindLaw Team
There is a lot to think about when separating from a partner. Here's a quick checklist on what to think about and what to do in family separation. Of course, speaking to your lawyer will ensure that in "separation" the I is dotted and the T is crossed!
Children
- Where the children will live
- Visitation arrangements, including grandparents
- Passports, which affects international visitation
- Educational decisions affecting school attendance
- School fees and other further education expenses for the children
- Child Support (amounts, duration and future reviews)
- Special needs, including diet and disability
Home and property
- Division of the family home and personal property, including furniture and cars
- Pensions - it may come as a surprise to know that your biggest asset may not be your home.
- Spousal maintenance (including amount, duration and provision for future reviews)
- Superannuation entitlements
- Ensuring future obligations are met, such as life insurance
Liability and responsibility of debt and credit
- Mortgages and deeds
- Loans - bank, student, home, personal
- Credit card liabilities
- Tax liabilities such as income, capital gains
- Bankruptcy issues
- Division of investments, savings, shares
- Legal and other professional fees
What to think about and what to do
- List all assets and liabilities showing costs and current values
- Obtain original or certified copies of all documentation including statements to show ownership and value
- Notify relevant organisations of the change in your circumstances
- Consider hidden assets
- Revise an existing will or make a new one
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