You have had enough of your life with your spouse, and you know that you want to get a divorce. However, doing so isn’t really as easy as just asking for one. There are lots of things you can do to prepare for a divorce that will make it easier in the long run.

If you don’t take the time to prepare before asking for a divorce, you might find you can’t access certain documents you need or that you’re not getting the cooperation you’d expect from your spouse. How can you avoid this? Here are some tips.

1. Collect documents before asking your spouse for a divorce

People are, by nature, more likely to give you what you want when you’re on good terms. Even if you know you want a divorce, it’s a good idea to avoid asking for one until you’ve collected printouts of your bank account statements, credit reports and other important documents. That way, you won’t have to worry about losing access due to your spouse changing passwords or other account information.

2. Work with an attorney before you start the divorce process

The next tip is something most people don’t realize is important. Working with your attorney before divorce is better than finding an attorney after you start the process. Your attorney can help give you tips on how to handle seeking the divorce and on what information to get from your spouse.

Our site has more on divorce and why it’s a good idea to prepare for divorce before you ever discuss it with your spouse.