How to Avoid Leaving Prized Possession during Relocation after Divorce

One of the most emotional things a divorced couple can do during relocation after their divorce is leave prized possessions behind. In many cases the divorce causes a great deal of bitterness on the part of the person being left behind, so anything you forget to take is likely to end up at the pawn shop or in the trash. There is no concern for your feelings or about any sentimental value that may be attached to things you left in the marital home. It is always better to follow the same practice you do when leaving a hotel room after a trip: go over everything with a fine tooth comb to make sure you have everything that is of importance.
Because packing for relocation after divorce is a traumatic event for both parties, it is a good idea to begin packing before you are ready to leave. When you take your time it is less likely you will leave behind anything you want to take with you. The only potential problem that may develop is if your spouse is unaware of problems in the marriage, seeing you pack things will let him or her know you are preparing to move out. On the other hand, if you are able to talk about the situation and agree to a divorce, you will be able to take your time packing. Unfortunately this doesn't always happen—in fact, it is rare for a divorcing couple to simply "agree to disagree" and walk away amicably.
While some people are prone to saying they just want to walk away with their personal property, in the end there are many unhappy people when they find they have left things behind. Being careful will help you avoid the possibility of leaving things behind that are important to you or have sentimental value. Some of the items you may want to make sure you have before you proceed with your relocation following your divorce include:
• Pictures of your children and other family members
• Any items of sentimental value such as something your deceased mother, father or other relative may have given you
• Mementos from high school or college
• Awards from school, college or work
• DVD and CD collections
• Books you want to keep
• Jewelry and other valuables
• Clothing you need for work or other activities
• Records of bank accounts and investments you have in your own name
• Deeds to any individually owned property
While there may be other things you want to keep, things that have sentimental value are the most important. You can always buy new clothes, but you can't replace the necklace your grandmother gave you before she died or the last photo you have of your parents. If they are in family albums in the marital home, you want to make sure you are able to acquire them before you leave. While your spouse may be willing to save anything you forgot to take, more often than not those things are lost forever.