Arizona Divorce Checklist
Going through a contested dissolution of marriage in Arizona is one of the most challenging legal and emotional experiences a person can face. When spouses cannot agree on key issues — such as the division of community property, spousal maintenance, legal decision-making (custody), or parenting time — Arizona's Superior Court must intervene. The process typically takes 6 to 18 months and can cost $15,000–$30,000 or more in attorney fees. This checklist is designed to help you stay organized, protect your rights, reduce unnecessary costs, and approach each stage of your case with clarity and confidence. Work through each section carefully, and always consult a licensed Arizona family law attorney for guidance specific to your circumstances.
Verify Arizona residency requirement is met*
Determine if you are in a covenant marriage*
Identify the specific contested issues in your case*
Understand Arizona's 'irretrievable breakdown' grounds*
Research the 60-day mandatory waiting period*
Locate your original marriage certificate*
Gather all financial account statements (last 3 years)*
Compile tax returns for the past 3–5 years*
Collect all real estate deeds and mortgage statements*
Document all debts: credit cards, loans, and liabilities*
Obtain vehicle titles and registration documents
Secure copies of any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements*
Open individual bank and credit accounts in your name only*
Request a complete credit report from all three bureaus*
Create a detailed inventory of all community and separate property*
Understand spousal maintenance eligibility and factors
Consult a QDRO specialist if retirement accounts are at stake
Track and document all marital expenses during proceedings*
Hire an experienced Arizona family law attorney*
File or respond to the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage*
Request Temporary Orders if immediate protection is needed
Prepare thoroughly for court-ordered mediation*
Comply fully with the discovery process*
Request a Resolution Management Conference (RMC) date*
Prepare for an Evidentiary Hearing or Trial if settlement fails
Develop a proposed Parenting Plan for all minor children*
Understand the difference between legal decision-making and parenting time*
Document your involvement in your children's daily lives*
Know the rules on relocating with your children*
Request a Child Support calculation using the Arizona Guidelines*
Consider requesting a Parenting Conference or appointment of a Parenting Coordinator
Classify all assets as community or separate property*
Obtain professional appraisals for real estate, businesses, and valuables
Address the family home: buyout, sale, or deferred sale*
Identify and value any business interests or professional licenses
Account for any separate property claims with documentation*
Update all beneficiary designations immediately*
Change your name legally if desired
Comply with all court orders: parenting plan, support, and property transfers*
File a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) for retirement accounts
Review and update your estate plan, will, and powers of attorney*
Know your rights and process for post-decree modifications
Clarity Divorce guides you through the paperwork with official Arizona court forms, step-by-step instructions, and county-specific filing details. $299 flat fee.