
The 411 On Case Information Statements
June 6, 2019
BY: Penny Polakoff, Paralegal
By Penny L. Polakoff, Paralegal
After the filing of initial pleadings (i.e. a Complaint for Divorce and Answer and Counterclaim, etc.), it is time to begin focusing on the Case Information Statement, or “CIS.” The CIS is paramount to the divorce process because it provides a snapshot of all of the financial details of a particular divorce case—in particular, income, lifestyle expenses, assets and liabilities. The CIS plays an important role in the determination of spousal support, child support and equitable distribution. For these reasons, it is highly important that the CIS is completed accurately and with appropriate descriptions of any income and/or expenses that may require explanation.
Generally speaking, in a divorce where one spouse handles all of the finances, it should be relatively easy for that spouse to gather the various paystubs, tax returns, financial statements, and bills that are necessary to complete a CIS. For the spouse who is unfamiliar with marital finances, however, gathering such information can be a daunting task.
Here are a few tips to consider when gathering information to complete your CIS:
Once the gathering of information is complete, divorcing spouses must also pay careful attention to filling out the section regarding average monthly spending. This is what is also known as “Schedule A, B and C” expenses. In short, Schedule A refers to shelter and housing expenses; Schedule B refers to transportation expenses; and Schedule C refers to personal expenses.
Here are a few tips to consider when filling out your Schedule A, B and C expenses:
If you’re considering a divorce and want to know more about a Case Information Statement, do not hesitate to contact the Family Law Department of Lesnevich, Marzano-Lesnevich, O’Cathain & O’Cathain, LLC.