For most families, this mediation homework list will be completed over several weeks or several months. My plan coming into a first session is to focus on ground rules and the identification of information to be gathered for exchange. This is because I expect at least one party will not be in an emotional state compatible with being able to complete this process quickly.
Assets & liabilities list for the division of assets related to a divorce
- Make a list by hand of all assets owned by a spouse plus all money either spouse owes another party. The list can be prepared together or you can prepare separate lists and exchange.
- Make a copy of this google sheet template and input rough estimates on asset and liability values.
- Gather documents. For retirement accounts, brokerage accounts, bank accounts and credit card statements, you’ll want at least the recent statement. For pensions, search online for pension valuation tools. For cars, run an estimate with a service such as Kelly Blue Book. For real estate, begin with a site like Zillow. It helps to also take a closer look at recent comparable sales.
- Update your spreadsheet.
- Exchange any information that hasn’t yet been exchanged.