Mediation Preparation Checklist UK

Mediation Preparation Checklist

Being well-prepared for family mediation significantly improves your chances of reaching agreement. This mediation preparation checklist covers everything you need to do before your sessions.

Download Mediation Checklist (PDF)

Before Your MIAM: Preparation Checklist

Use this mediation preparation checklist before your MIAM:

Documents to Gather

• [ ] Photo ID (passport, driving licence)
• [ ] Proof of address
• [ ] Legal aid evidence (if applicable)
• [ ] Any existing court orders
• [ ] Notes on key dates and events

Information to Prepare

• [ ] Children's names and dates of birth
• [ ] Current living arrangements
• [ ] Current contact arrangements
• [ ] Main issues to resolve
• [ ] Any safety concerns

Questions to Consider

• [ ] What are my priorities?
• [ ] What outcome do I want?
• [ ] Am I willing to try mediation?
• [ ] What are my concerns?

Before Mediation Sessions: Full Preparation Checklist

This mediation preparation checklist is for joint mediation sessions:

For Child Arrangements Mediation

Documents Checklist

• [ ] Children's school schedules
• [ ] Activity calendars
• [ ] Current contact schedule
• [ ] Work schedules (both parents)
• [ ] Holiday dates
• [ ] Any relevant medical information

Questions Checklist

• [ ] What living arrangements work best for children?
• [ ] What contact schedule is practical?
• [ ] How will holidays be divided?
• [ ] How will we handle handovers?
• [ ] How will we communicate about children?
• [ ] How will big decisions be made?
• [ ] What if arrangements need to change?

Priorities Checklist

• [ ] What is non-negotiable for me?
• [ ] Where can I be flexible?
• [ ] What do the children need most?
• [ ] What would a "good enough" outcome look like?

For Financial Mediation

Documents Checklist

• [ ] Recent payslips (3 months)
• [ ] Bank statements (12 months)
• [ ] Mortgage statement
• [ ] Property valuation
• [ ] Pension valuations (CETV)
• [ ] Savings and investment statements
• [ ] Debts and loan statements
• [ ] Business accounts (if self-employed)
• [ ] Tax returns
• [ ] List of valuable items

Questions Checklist

• [ ] What is the family home worth?
• [ ] What are our pension values?
• [ ] What are our total assets?
• [ ] What are our total debts?
• [ ] What income do we each have?
• [ ] What are our housing needs?
• [ ] What is fair division?

Mental Preparation Checklist

This part of the mediation preparation checklist is often overlooked but crucial:

Emotional Preparation

• [ ] Acknowledge this will be difficult
• [ ] Process some emotions beforehand
• [ ] Consider speaking to a counsellor
• [ ] Plan how to stay calm
• [ ] Identify your triggers
• [ ] Practice deep breathing

Mindset Preparation

• [ ] Focus on the future, not the past
• [ ] Keep children's needs central
• [ ] Accept you won't get everything
• [ ] Commit to listening, not just talking
• [ ] Be willing to compromise
• [ ] Stay solution-focused

Practical Preparation

• [ ] Arrange childcare for session time
• [ ] Plan your route (or test video link)
• [ ] Allow travel time
• [ ] Eat beforehand
• [ ] Get good sleep the night before
• [ ] Have water and tissues available

What to Bring: Mediation Preparation Checklist

Always Bring

• [ ] Photo ID
• [ ] Notebook and pen
• [ ] Your prepared notes
• [ ] Water
• [ ] Any agreed documents

For Child Mediation

• [ ] Calendars/schedules
• [ ] Children's activity information
• [ ] School term dates

For Financial Mediation

• [ ] All financial documents (see above)
• [ ] Calculator
• [ ] Questions about finances

Questions to Ask the Mediator

Include these in your mediation preparation checklist:

• [ ] How does the process work?
• [ ] What is confidential?
• [ ] How many sessions might we need?
• [ ] What happens if we can't agree?
• [ ] Can I bring a support person?
• [ ] How do we make agreements binding?

The Day of Mediation: Final Checklist

• [ ] Review your priorities
• [ ] Re-read your notes
• [ ] Check you have all documents
• [ ] Leave plenty of time
• [ ] Arrive calm and focused
• [ ] Turn off phone during session

Using This Mediation Preparation Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important part of mediation preparation?

The most important part of the mediation preparation checklist is clarifying your priorities and being willing to compromise. Documents matter, but mindset determines success.

How far in advance should I prepare for mediation?

Start your mediation preparation checklist at least 1-2 weeks before your session. Financial document gathering may take longer - start that earlier.

Can I bring someone to help me at mediation?

You attend mediation without the other party, but ask your mediator about bringing a support person. They cannot speak for you but may provide comfort.

Next Steps

1. Download/print this checklist - Work through it systematically
2. Book your MIAM - Find a mediator
3. Prepare with Miam - AI assistant helps you clarify priorities
4. Gather documents - Start early
5. Prepare mentally - This matters as much as paperwork

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Official Resources

For authoritative information on mediation preparation:

Government Templates & Guidance

• GOV.UK Parenting Plan - Official template
• GOV.UK - Mediation - MIAM guidance
• Form E Financial Statement - Required disclosure form
• GOV.UK - Divorce and Separation - Overview guidance

Mediation Standards

• Family Mediation Council - Find accredited mediators
• FMC Code of Practice - Professional standards
• National Family Mediation - Preparation resources
• Resolution - Family law professionals

Children's Welfare

• Cafcass - Children and family court support
• Cafcass Parenting Plan - Child-focused template
• Children Act 1989 Section 1 - Welfare principle

Financial Preparation

• Pension Advisory Service - Pension guidance
• MoneyHelper Divorce - Financial planning
• Legal Aid Calculator - Eligibility check

Support Services

• AdviceNow - Mediation - Plain English guide
• Citizens Advice - Free advice
• Relate - Relationship and family support

Detailed Preparation Checklist

Documents to Gather

Financial Documents:

• [ ] Last 3 months payslips
• [ ] Last 3 months bank statements (all accounts)
• [ ] Mortgage statement and property valuation
• [ ] Pension statements (request CETV if possible)
• [ ] Credit card and loan statements
• [ ] Business accounts if self-employed
• [ ] P60 and tax returns
• [ ] Investment and savings statements

Child-Related Documents:

• [ ] Current arrangements in writing
• [ ] School term dates and reports
• [ ] Childcare arrangements and costs
• [ ] Medical or special needs information
• [ ] Activity schedules and commitments

Legal Documents:

• [ ] Marriage certificate
• [ ] Any existing court orders
• [ ] Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
• [ ] Property deeds

Mental Preparation

• [ ] Identified your priorities and must-haves
• [ ] Listed areas where you can compromise
• [ ] Considered the children's perspective
• [ ] Prepared for emotional challenges
• [ ] Arranged support (friend, counsellor) if needed

Practical Arrangements

• [ ] Childcare arranged for session times
• [ ] Work commitments cleared
• [ ] Transport or technology sorted (if online)
• [ ] Diary available for scheduling