A divorce starts by filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. A.R.S. 25-314 sets out the information that should be included in a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. The court for the county where you are filing will likely have a fill in the blank form available on its website if you do not want to write one from scratch.
Regarding custody, parenting time and support, you either need to lay out what agreements have been reached or include a request for what you would want ordered if you were the only involved. Include whether you want sole or joint legal custody and/or primary physical custody. You also need to request child support.
If you feel you are entitled to spousal maintenance you must request it in the petition or you will not be able to be awarded support during the divorce.
You also need to address what you want to happen with your property and debts. If you have property you believe to be your separate property you need to make a claim for it in your petition. If you believe there are debts that are your spouse's sole debt you need to set those out in your petition. You don't have to set out all of your property and debts specifically. You can just say you want the community property and debts divided equally, your separate property awarded to you and separate debts assigned properly and the full nature and extent of them will be determined during the case.
And remember...
While you may find helpful insights or bits of information in this blog as it progresses, keep in mind that this is only being provided as general information to help you and others get started in this process. My first and best advice is to consult a lawyer knowledgeable in the area of family law. This is the only way to truly obtain advice directly pertinent to your situation. I am available for consultation by calling (928) 458-5026 to schedule an appointment.
