How to Prepare for a Divorce and Family Law Case

By:

Amanda Willing

On

14/12/2025

Reading time:

3 min

Summary:

Preparing for a family law case involves more than showing up to court. Being organized with your finances, understanding your child’s care needs, and approaching decision-making with your child’s best interests in mind can make a meaningful difference. Early preparation helps reduce stress, manage legal costs, and position your matter for a more efficient and informed resolution.

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Separation and divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re facing legal proceedings involving finances and children. While every family law case is unique, being organized and prepared can significantly reduce stress, legal costs, and uncertainty.

Below are key areas to focus on when preparing for a family law matter, particularly as it relates to financial disclosure, child care arrangements, and decision-making responsibilities.

1. Preparing Financially for a Family Law Case

Financial issues are often one of the most contentious aspects of family law proceedings. Courts require transparency, accuracy, and full disclosure.

Gather Your Financial Documents Early

Start collecting the following documents as soon as possible:

  • Recent income tax returns and notices of assessment

  • Pay stubs, employment contracts, and records of bonuses or commissions

  • Bank statements (personal and joint)

  • Credit card statements and lines of credit

  • Mortgage statements and property tax bills

  • Pension statements, RRSPs, TFSAs, and investment accounts

  • Business financials, if applicable

  • Proof of debts and liabilities

Being organized from the outset helps your lawyer assess your financial position efficiently and ensures compliance with mandatory disclosure obligations.

Understand the Importance of Full Financial Disclosure

Family law cases require complete and ongoing disclosure. Failing to disclose assets or income — even unintentionally — can result in serious consequences, including adverse court findings or cost penalties.

Transparency protects your credibility and helps move your matter toward resolution.

2. Child Care and Parenting Arrangements

When children are involved, the court’s primary focus is always the best interests of the child.

Document Your Child’s Routine

Start keeping records of:

  • Daily schedules (school, daycare, extracurriculars)

  • Medical appointments and healthcare needs

  • Childcare arrangements and costs

  • Who attends school meetings, appointments, and activities

These details help demonstrate stability, involvement, and consistency in your child’s life.

Track Child-Related Expenses

Child-related expenses may include:

  • Daycare or after-school care

  • Medical, dental, or therapy expenses

  • Educational or tutoring costs

  • Extracurricular activities

Maintaining organized records ensures accurate child support and section 7 expense discussions.

3. Decision-Making Responsibilities and Parenting Roles

Decision-making refers to who has the authority to make major decisions about a child’s:

  • Education

  • Health care

  • Religion

  • Extracurricular activities

Be Prepared to Explain How Decisions Are Made

Courts often look at:

  • Each parent’s historical involvement in decision-making

  • Ability to communicate and co-parent effectively

  • Willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent

Keeping records of communication and decision-making involvement can be helpful if disputes arise.

Focus on the Child — Not the Conflict

Avoid emotional or reactive communication. Judges expect parents to prioritize their child’s well-being over personal conflict. Demonstrating reasonableness and cooperation can significantly impact outcomes.

4. Practical Steps Before Meeting Your Lawyer

To make the most of your legal consultation:

  • Prepare a clear timeline of your relationship and separation

  • Write down your primary concerns and goals

  • Organize documents electronically or in labeled folders

  • Avoid making major financial changes without legal advice

  • Refrain from posting about your matter on social media

Preparation helps your lawyer provide focused, strategic guidance from day one.

Preparing for a family law case is not about being perfect — it’s about being informed, organized, and intentional. Addressing financial disclosure, child care planning, and decision-making responsibilities early can help streamline the process and reduce conflict.

If you’re facing a separation or divorce and need guidance tailored to your circumstances, speaking with a family law lawyer early can help you protect both your interests and your children’s well-being.

Contact Willing Law today

(519) 980 3476

[email protected]