Founding Attorney
When it comes to divorce mediation, clarity is power. One of the most important steps in the process is gathering accurate financial information—because fair agreements start with full transparency.
At Off the Record Mediation Services LLC, we work with clients across California to help them prepare the documentation and details needed for productive mediation sessions. The more organized you are, the more efficient and cost-effective the process will be.
Why Financial Disclosure Matters in Mediation
Mediation is built on trust and cooperation. Both parties need access to the same financial facts in order to negotiate fairly. That’s why complete and honest financial disclosure isn’t optional—it’s required.
Full disclosure helps:
- Ensure assets and debts are divided fairly
- Calculate appropriate support payments
- Minimize misunderstandings or hidden liabilities
- Avoid legal complications later on
Remember, even though mediation is private and voluntary, your final agreement must meet California’s legal standards. That starts with accurate financial data.
What You’ll Need to Gather
Here’s a helpful checklist of what to bring to your next mediation session:
Income Documentation
- Recent pay stubs
- W2s or 1099s from the last two years
- Tax returns
- Business income records (if self-employed)
Assets
- Bank account statements (checking and savings)
- Retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, pensions)
- Investment accounts (stocks, mutual funds, crypto)
- Real estate documents (titles, mortgages, appraisals)
- Vehicles, boats, or other major assets
- Valuable personal property (art, jewelry, collectibles)
Debts
- Mortgage and HELOC balances
- Credit card statements
- Car loans
- Student loans
- Any shared or individual debts
Other Helpful Documents
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
- Health insurance info
- Life insurance policies
- Monthly budgets or expense breakdowns
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything upfront. Your mediator will let you know what’s essential for your unique situation.
How to Stay Organized
Creating a shared folder (digital or physical) with labeled documents makes it easier for both parties—and the mediator—to stay on track. If you’re unsure whether a document is relevant, bring it anyway. Better to have more than less.
At Off the Record, Dorit L. Goikhman helps clients understand what they need and why. Her goal is to make the process clear, not complicated and to avoid confusion or frustration down the road.
What If You Suspect Hidden Assets?
Mediation relies on good faith. If you believe your spouse is withholding information or hiding assets, speak up. Mediation may still be possible, but transparency is non-negotiable. In high-conflict or high-asset cases, outside financial experts may be brought in to assist.
Preparing for Success
Gathering documents might feel tedious, but it’s the foundation of a fair divorce agreement. Being proactive not only speeds up the process it helps both parties feel secure and respected.
Let Us Help You Get Started
Need help figuring out what to collect or how to prepare? At Off the Record Mediation Services LLC, we’re here to walk you through every step calmly and clearly.
Call us today at 866-223-4153 or schedule a free 30-minute consultation online. We’ll help you build the foundation for a fair, efficient divorce.