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Here are some general notes about using the worksheets. These instructions are included with the worksheets package that you can download. If you don't get that package, print the instructions below and keep them with your worksheets for reference.
Keep good records
Your work will be easier and smoother if you keep your records safe, neat, organized, and all together in one place. Otherwise, you can end up swamped in a mess of papers that will leave you feeling confused and frustrated. You might misplace important papers. It's easier if you start off right.
Keep file folders in a drawer or box, or go to a stationers and get a large accordion folder with six or more compartments, or just use some large envelopes in a box. Keep a set of files for:
- Correspondence with
- your spouse
- lawyers, if you get assistance
- paralegals or other professionals
- Legal pleadings
- Other records and documents
- Worksheets
- Depending on your case, any other categories that will help you keep things sorted and easy to find.
For all worksheets
- Decide if you want to download the worksheet set in a format you can use on your PC or Mac, or wrestle with the text-based worksheets here in the Work Room. The set includes instructions, so if you get it, there's nothing left to do here online. For more information or to download a worksheets package, click here.
- Print a blank copy of the forms so you can start on a rough pencil draft, then enter data
for your final copy. Duplicate your final copy whenever you need to give a copy to a
professional who is helping you with your case.
- Put "N/A" in spaces where the information requested is not applicable to your situation, or put a line through the entire section if it is not relevant; this is so a reader will know that you did not simply forget the item. Put "EST" where an amount is estimated.
- Pencil in "UNK" where you don't know the requested information. Keep a list of things you don't yet know and need to find out. There may be some things you can't get, but put some effort into digging out information and completing as much of the forms as possible.
- If you run out of room on any item, attach another sheet with a heading that says "continuation of item (x)," and continue on that sheet. When you are completely finished, note the total number of additional pages at the top of the first sheet on the line provided at the top of the form and staple them all together.
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