Separation Checklist

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

Read more related articles

• Divorce
• Children
• Separation