Divorce Mediation Checklist: How to Prepare for Your Mediation Session

If you and your divorce have decided to part ways, you may have decided – or you may have been required – to attend mediation to resolve disputes and reach a divorce settlement agreement. Mediation is a great way to finalize a divorce without spending a fortune or subjecting yourself to the stress of litigation.

What to Expect from the Process

Many people preparing for their first divorce mediation session are curious about what the process will entail. Mediation takes place in a more casual and easygoing environment than the courtroom. The mediator assigned to your case will be a neutral third party whose job is to facilitate discussion and encourage compromise. The mediator will introduce each topic. From there, you and your spouse can talk things out and find a compromise that works for both of you.

Try to go into the mediation process with an open mind and a willingness to cooperate with your spouse. Disputes and disagreements are common in divorce, but they can be resolved much more easily if both parties are willing to work together. Do your best to keep your emotions under control and your head clear. Focus on negotiating, not on arguing.

What to Bring

Now that you understand how the process will work, you’ll want to know what to bring. The more documentation and information you can provide, the better.

We recommend bringing the following items and documents:

• Bank statements
• Tax returns for the last few years
• Car/boat/vehicle valuations
• Documents for student loans, business loans, and other personal loans
• Balance statements for all your investments
• Information about your debt
• Information about your mortgage
• A few recent paystubs
• Documents about your real estate and the value of your properties
• W-2s or 1099s
• Insurance records/documentation (including health, life, auto, and other insurance policies)
• Information about any pending civil claims you or your spouse are involved in
• Approximate values for your personal property, such as jewelry, art, collectibles, and other valuables
• A copy of your marriage certificate
• Copies of any trust documents
• Copies of any marital agreements you have signed

Learn More about Divorce Mediation

Want to learn more about the divorce mediation process and why it might be the right choice for your situation? Cianci Law, PC is here to help. We have helped countless clients prepare for divorce mediation and would be happy to represent you in your case.

Contact us at (916) 797-1575 to get started.