Most U.S. states require the verification of a divorce petition. Verification means that a legal document is executed on the oath of the person who signed it. For example, a divorce petition contains language to the effect of "the above and foregoing information is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief."
Step 1
Go to the office of the clerk of the court where you intend to file for divorce. Request a divorce petition form. Most court clerks maintain standard forms needed for divorce cases, along with instructions for completion.
Step 2
Fill out the petition form, including basic information about your marriage. The required data includes the date and location of your wedding, the name and addresses of both spouses and basic information about your children.
Step 3
Include a statement in the divorce petition along the lines of: "The undersigned hereby verifies on her oath that the statements and allegations in the above and foregoing petition for divorce is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief."
Step 4
Sign the petition and have it officially witnessed by a notary public.
Tips and Warnings
- Preparing a divorce petition requires a basic understanding of marriage-dissolution law, even when using a standard form from the court clerk. Pursuing a divorce case requires even more legal knowledge. Consider hiring an attorney if you intend to pursue a divorce. The American Bar Association provides resources to assist you in finding experienced legal representation. These include contact information for local and state bar organizations, groups that maintain directories of family-law lawyers in your area.
Things You'll Need
- Petition for divorce
References
- FindLaw: Family Law Center
- "The Complete Divorce Handbook: A Practical Guide"; Brette McWhorter Sember; 2009
- American Bar Association: Section of Family Law
