What are important things I need to know when getting a divorce?

First off you need to know "is it worth it".

Also you should hire representation to get you through it. When considering is it worth it what that really means is to carefullt evaluate what's on the table. Local laws will guide you as to what your entitled to but when it comes to the smaller stuff you may have to let go of things just to get it over with. Otherwise it can drag on forever and you get an enormous bill from your lawyer.