Divorce Mediation Checklist: What to Bring to Divorce Mediation in Missouri

Mediation is helpful in many divorce cases, often resulting in mutually agreeable resolutions for both spouses. But for this method to proceed smoothly and generate favorable results, both parties need to be prepared.

Each spouse may need to present certain documents in discussing divorce matters like property division or child custody. Each must also be emotionally ready and open to find common ground with the other.

Here is a checklist of what to prepare for divorce mediation in Missouri.

Documents You will Need for Divorce Mediation

Organize and compile documentary information relevant to the divorce issues in question. These might include:

Financial Information

• Monthly/annual income
• Tax returns (federal and state)
• Bank account statements
• Retirement/pension account statements
• Real estate property valuation
• Insurance policies (life insurance, automobile, health care, etc.)
• Insurance annuities statements
• Social Security documents
• Mortgage statements
• Credit card statements
• Loan statements
• Profit and loss accounts of any business
• Records of any investment or stock option
• Records of valuable artworks, jewelry, antiques, and other property.

Parenting Information

• Child’s school records
• Child’s medical and dental records
• Childcare plans (education, health care, etc)
• Childcare expenses
• Child support, if any
• Relevant communications regarding childcare (with spouse, grandparents, teachers, or other adults).

You’ll want to prepare copies of these documents and bring them to your mediation session.

How to Prepare Yourself for Divorce Mediation

Come into the session with a cooperative mindset.

Divorces can be emotionally charged and full of antagonism. Before coming into a mediation session, both spouses must let go of this antagonistic mindset, trusting that this dispute resolution process is intended to produce mutually acceptable agreements. The mediator ensures that no party is favored over the other, so there is no need to be combative.

Be open to some compromise.

Along the divorce mediation process, participants may discover a potential resolution that does not exactly fit their original expectations but is still highly acceptable. Both spouses must be amenable to such resolutions instead of digging their heels with a “my way or the highway” mentality.

Be transparent.

Mediation relies on the honesty and good faith of both parties. Each spouse must be forthcoming and clear in telling their point of view, their priorities, their concerns, and their ideal outcomes. In addition, they must refrain from embellishing or twisting facts against the other party.

Take time to listen to the other party.

Just as both spouses are requested to be honest, each must also have a listening mindset towards each other. This entails being calm enough to see the other’s perspective, instead of just listening in order to respond or attack their story.

Select your mediator wisely.

Not all mediators are the same. Just because a mediation professional offers the lowest rates does not mean they are the most prudent option. Facilitating human dynamics, especially between divorcing couples, requires continuing training and experience, plus familiarity with laws in your state.

Look for a registered mediator with a long and reputable track record handling Family Law cases. Check their background as well as their testimonials from past clients and other professionals in the industry.

You’ll also want your mediator to be local, because divorce issues are largely anchored on your state’s Family Law rules. A locally accessible mediator also helps reduce the stress of traveling to and from meetings.

Talk to a Divorce Mediator in St. Charles

When you hire a mediation lawyer at Shea Kohl, you can rest assured you’re in good hands. We are mediators with extensive experience in Missouri Family Law, which means we can help you navigate your divorce legal matters efficiently.

If you’re seeking divorce mediation in the St. Charles region, call us at (636) 946-9999 or fill out our contact form for a consultation.