The documents most divorces need

Exact forms vary by state, but most divorces involve some version of these:

• Petition / Complaint — opens the case
• Summons — the official notice to your spouse
• Financial affidavit / disclosure — your income, assets, and debts
• Marital settlement agreement — the terms you both agree to
• Parenting plan — custody, schedule, and decision-making (if you have children)
• Child-support worksheet — the guideline calculation for your state
• Final judgment / decree — the paper the judge signs to finish

Getting them right

CaseForward links you straight to your state's official forms, and helps you prepare the agreement, parenting plan, support worksheet, and any motions. Always review each document against your court's checklist before filing — and your court self-help center can look them over for free.