How to Prepare for a Divorce Mediation in California

Introduction

I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. In this post I’ll walk you through how to show up to a divorce mediation in California prepared, confident, and ready to reach an amicable agreement. Mediation can be faster, less expensive, and far less stressful than a court battle—if you come prepared.

Why choose mediation?

Mediation focuses on finding common ground and moving forward amicably. Compared to litigation, mediation typically:

• Saves time and money
• Reduces emotional stress
• Allows couples to craft solutions tailored to their needs
• Often resolves matters in one session for well-prepared couples

What to bring to divorce mediation

Having a clear financial picture is essential. Before your mediation session, gather the following documents and information:

• Income: Recent pay stubs, W-2s, or other proof of earnings
• Bank accounts: Statements for checking, savings, and other accounts
• Debts and credit cards: Recent statements showing balances and minimum payments
• Property details: Mortgage statements, deeds, appraisals, or valuations for homes and vehicles
• Retirement and investment accounts: Current balances for IRAs, 401(k)s, pensions, brokerage accounts
• Any other assets: Business interests, life insurance values, valuable personal property

How to prepare mentally and strategically

Documents alone aren’t enough. Enter mediation with a clear strategy:

• Identify your priorities: Know what matters most to you—housing, custody, spousal support, retirement division, etc.
• Set realistic goals: Decide where you’re willing to compromise and where you need to stand firm.
• Stay focused: Organized documentation and a clear mindset help prevent misunderstandings and keep negotiations productive.

Real client example

We helped a couple organize their finances and clarify their goals before mediation. Because they had everything prepared and knew their priorities, they reached a full agreement in one session and finalized their divorce shortly after—saving time, stress, and money. Their success highlights the value of preparation and a focused approach.

How Divorce661 helps

At Divorce661 we assist with:

• Preparing and organizing financial disclosures
• Helping you clarify goals and priorities before mediation
• Drafting all divorce paperwork after mediation—flat fee, no court

“By preparing thoroughly, you’ll approach mediation with clarity and confidence.”

After mediation: paperwork and final steps

Once you reach an agreement in mediation, you’ll need the appropriate paperwork to finalize your divorce. Drafting accurate settlement documents is crucial to ensure your agreement is enforceable and clear. With the right help, you can move from agreement to final judgment without unnecessary court time.

Next steps and free consultation

If you’re considering mediation, start by getting organized. Make a checklist of the documents above and identify your top priorities. If you want help preparing, visit Divorce661.com for a free consultation. We’ll help you get organized, stay focused, and work toward a peaceful, efficient resolution.

Final thoughts

Mediation is an opportunity to resolve your divorce with dignity and control. With the right preparation—organized finances, clear priorities, and professional guidance—you can reduce stress, save money, and often conclude matters quickly.

Question: What’s your biggest concern about divorce mediation—finances, custody, or communication?