Divorce Mediation Checklist: What to Prepare for a Smooth Mediation Process in Manhasset, Port Washington, and Surrounding Areas
Going through a divorce is never easy, but the process doesn’t have to be a drawn-out legal battle. Many couples in Manhasset, Port Washington, Roslyn, Old Westbury, Great Neck, Kings Point, Central Business District Great Neck, and New Hyde Park are turning to divorce mediation as a cost-effective, faster, and less stressful alternative to litigation.
Preparation is key to a successful mediation process. Having the right documents, financial records, and key discussion points ready will help ensure a smooth, productive, and fair negotiation.
If you’re considering divorce mediation in New York, this checklist will guide you through:
✔ The documents and financial records to gather
✔ Key topics to discuss during mediation
✔ Essential tips for a productive negotiation
📺 Want to learn more about preparing for mediation? Watch this video:
▶ Divorce Mediation Checklist – Video
Why You Need a Divorce Mediation Checklist
Divorce mediation is a structured negotiation process where a neutral mediator helps both spouses reach agreements on key divorce-related issues such as:
✔ Division of property and assets
✔ Child custody and parenting schedules
✔ Child support and spousal support
✔ Debt division and financial planning
A checklist ensures that you:
✔ Stay organized and focused on key topics
✔ Have all necessary financial records prepared
✔ Make informed decisions during negotiations
💡 Pro Tip: Being prepared reduces delays, extra mediation sessions, and unnecessary legal fees.
Divorce Mediation Checklist: What You Need to Bring
1. Financial Documents
A clear understanding of your financial situation is crucial for negotiating asset division, alimony, and child support. Bring copies of:
✔ Tax Returns – Past 3 years (both joint and individual)
✔ Bank Statements – Checking, savings, investment, and retirement accounts
✔ Pay Stubs & Income Proof – Last 3–6 months of income from both spouses
✔ Mortgage Statements & Property Deeds – Home ownership and real estate investments
✔ Loan & Debt Records – Credit cards, car loans, student loans, and personal debt
✔ Insurance Policies – Life, health, auto, and home insurance
💡 Pro Tip: Create a financial summary listing all marital assets and debts to make mediation discussions easier and more efficient.
2. Child Custody & Parenting Plan Details (If Applicable)
If you have children, mediation will involve negotiating custody and parenting arrangements. Be prepared to discuss:
✔ Custody Arrangements – Physical and legal custody preferences
✔ Parenting Schedules – Weekdays, weekends, holidays, and vacations
✔ School & Extracurricular Activities – Who will handle school pickups, sports, and activities?
✔ Child Support Considerations – Monthly support payments and expense-sharing agreements
💡 Pro Tip: Consider your child’s school schedule, extracurricular activities, and long-term well-being when creating a parenting plan.
3. Property & Asset Division
Dividing marital property can be one of the most complex parts of mediation. Bring documents related to:
✔ Real Estate – Homes, rental properties, land, and vacation properties
✔ Vehicles – Car titles, leases, and loan details
✔ Retirement Accounts & Pensions – 401(k), IRA, or pension plans
✔ Stock & Investment Accounts – Mutual funds, stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrency
✔ Business Ownership Documents – If either spouse owns a business
💡 Pro Tip: List all assets acquired during the marriage and determine which are joint vs. separate property before mediation.
4. Spousal Support (Alimony) Considerations
Alimony (spousal support) may be a key discussion point in mediation. Be prepared to address:
✔ Whether alimony is necessary – Based on income levels and employment status
✔ How long payments should last – Temporary or long-term support
✔ Payment Amounts – Based on financial needs and lifestyle
💡 Pro Tip: Bring proof of living expenses (rent, utilities, healthcare, and child-related costs) to help determine a fair alimony arrangement.
5. Health & Insurance Plans
Divorce can impact health, dental, and life insurance policies. Discuss:
✔ Who will keep health insurance coverage?
✔ How will insurance for children be handled?
✔ Whether life insurance policies need to be adjusted
💡 Pro Tip: Check your employer’s health benefits policy to see if ex-spouses can stay on coverage post-divorce.
How to Have a Productive Mediation Session
1️⃣ Stay Open-Minded – Be willing to compromise and find middle ground.
2️⃣ Stick to the Facts – Keep emotions in check and focus on solutions.
3️⃣ Take Notes & Stay Organized – Bring a folder with all required documents.
4️⃣ Think Long-Term – Focus on what’s best for your future, not just immediate concerns.
5️⃣ Consult a Financial or Legal Expert – Have a professional review your agreement before finalizing.
💡 Pro Tip: Mediation is about collaboration, not conflict. Approach negotiations with a goal-oriented mindset rather than a win-lose attitude.
Find the Best Divorce Mediation Services in Manhasset, Port Washington, and Nearby Areas
If you’re looking for a trusted divorce mediator in Manhasset, Port Washington, Roslyn, Old Westbury, Great Neck, Kings Point, or New Hyde Park, here’s what to consider:
✔ Experience in family law and mediation
✔ A neutral, fair approach to negotiations
✔ Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
✔ Full-service legal document preparation & court filing assistance
💡 Watch this video to learn more about preparing for mediation:
📺 Divorce Mediation Checklist – Video
Start Your Divorce Mediation Today
At Resolvium, we specialize in helping couples navigate divorce mediation efficiently and fairly.
✔ Child Custody & Co-Parenting Agreements
✔ Fair Division of Property & Assets
✔ Customized Divorce Settlements
✔ Private & Confidential Mediation Sessions
💡 Thinking about divorce mediation? Contact Resolvium today to schedule a consultation and get started on a cost-effective, stress-free divorce.
📺 Watch now: Divorce Mediation Checklist – Video
