How to Prepare for a Family Law Mediation Session
Family law mediation works best when everyone comes to the table prepared. Mediation is not about surprise tactics or courtroom drama—it’s about informed decision-making, efficiency, and reaching an agreement that you are comfortable with and can live with long after the session ends.
If you are scheduled for a family law mediation, there are two simple steps you should take in advance to set yourself up for success.
1. Complete the Mediation Questionnaire Thoroughly and Honestly
Before mediation, clients are asked to complete a detailed intake questionnaire. This document is not busywork. It provides the mediator with essential background information about your case, including the issues to be resolved, areas of agreement, and areas of dispute.
Take the time to fill it out completely and accurately. The more information the mediator has in advance, the more productive your session will be. Incomplete or rushed responses often lead to time being spent during mediation just clarifying basic facts—time that could otherwise be used to work toward resolution.
2. Gather Financial Documents in Advance
For cases involving child support, spousal support, or property partition, having reliable financial information is essential. Mediation depends on realistic numbers, not estimates or assumptions.
You should gather documents that reflect:
- Your current income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or other income records)
- Bank account balances
- Retirement accounts and investment statements
- Real estate values
- Outstanding debts, including mortgages, credit cards, loans, and other liabilities
You do not need to organize these documents perfectly or create spreadsheets unless instructed to do so. Simply having accurate, up-to-date records available allows discussions to stay grounded in reality and prevents delays caused by missing information.
Why Preparation Matters
Mediation is designed to be efficient, cost-effective, and respectful. When both parties arrive prepared, sessions tend to move faster, cost less, and result in clearer, more durable agreements.
Preparation also gives you confidence. Knowing your financial picture and having thought through your priorities allows you to focus on solutions rather than reacting under pressure.
If you and your spouse or co-parent are looking for a more respectful, efficient path forward, SNW’s Family Law Mediation Practice may be a good fit. To learn more or to schedule a consultation with SNW’s mediator, Johnston Burkhardt, contact him today at
johnston@snw.law or 504-313-4199.
