Gathering Information: What to Expect in Stage 3 of Your Divorce

Stage 3, Gathering Information, is where we focus on compiling the details needed to move your case forward. In the beginning, it may feel like things are progressing as you start collecting and submitting documents. But as this phase continues, it’s common to feel like things have slowed down. We want you to know upfront: that’s normal.

This stage isn’t about quick action—it’s about ensuring we have all the necessary information before moving forward. While you’re working on gathering documents, we may also be receiving discovery from the other side. Sometimes, what we receive raises new questions, which means that we may decide to add additional discovery into your case plan.

Why This Stage Matters

Before we can negotiate or propose solutions, we need a clear, accurate financial and legal picture. During this phase:

• You’ll be submitting documents requested by your legal team.
• We’ll likely begin receiving information from the other side.
• Sometimes, what we learn leads to additional discovery requests, which is a normal and expected part of the process.
• You have an ongoing duty to update your financial information. If your income, expenses, or assets change, let us know so we can ensure everything remains accurate and up to date.

Even though it might not feel like major steps are happening, this is progress. The more complete and accurate our information is now, the stronger we’ll be in the next phase.

Refining Your Case Strategy

As part of this phase, we’ll have your second Strategy Session, where we’ll refine your case strategy based on everything we’ve learned so far—including what’s coming in through discovery. This is an important opportunity to assess where things stand, identify any adjustments, and continue to position you to move forward with the best approach for your goals.

It’s also possible that the court will schedule a Case Date during this stage.  Sometimes, at the Case Date, the court determines timelines for your case.  The court may also hear motions related to how to handle things during the divorce (like temporary parenting plans or exclusive use of the marital home) at the Case Date.  No matter what, your legal team will proactively keep you in the loop so you know what’s coming next and our strategy stays up to date.

How to Stay Focused

✅ Complete document requests as soon as possible. The sooner we have what we need, the better prepared we’ll be.

✅ Keep your financial information up to date. If there’s a change in your income, expenses, or assets, notify us right away.
✅ Learn more about why discovery can feel like it takes so long.

✅ Schedule and attend your second Strategy Session. We will reach out when it’s time to schedule.

✅ Expect that additional discovery may be needed. This isn’t a delay—it’s part of making sure we have the full picture.

✅ Use this time to focus on yourself and your future. Do things that bring you joy and remind you of what you’re working toward.

Many people feel frustrated in this stage because it doesn’t have the same immediate action as earlier phases. But this is the work that makes everything else possible. While we handle the legal process, you can use this time to reconnect with yourself and focus on the life you’re creating.

Once we’ve gathered the right information, we’ll be ready to move forward into Stage 4: Crafting a Proposal, where we start shaping the plan for your future.