If you and your child’s other parent are in need of talking to a custody mediator in California then you’re likely worried about the situation, not sure how to prepare, and not sure what to expect. The good news is that you have an experienced mediator on your side. When you contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, we can help you understand what the process is all about, how you can prepare for it, and what you should expect from it. Keep reading to learn more and then contact us at 909-482-1422 to schedule an appointment.
Getting documents ready for custody mediation
If your co-parent is the one who filed a request for mediation then you should respond to their declaration within the timeframe you’re allowed. This should include a responsive declaration to the request for order. These documents tell the factual story about what both you and your co-parent want but it’s not the end point – it is just a beginning.
Look at the court orders for modification
If you have active court orders regarding your child custody, then now is the time to review those documents and make sure you’re familiar with the ins and outs. For example, if the mediation is about a modification request that you’re seeking or the other parenting is seeking, then you should be extremely familiar with the current order and what modifications are being looked for. If there are exhibits, reviews, etc., you should be familiar with all of them. You can always call Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell at 909-482-1422 for help if you need it.
If your case is complex then you need more preparation
The amount of time you want to spend preparing, and exactly what you review, will depend in part on how complex the case is. For example if the request is a fairly simple and straightforward modification with no exhibits then it may not require more than reviewing the documents filed and served. However, if the case involves complex issues such as substance abuse allegations, domestic violence, neglect, etc., then you will have more to review – and it may be time to contact a family law attorney to help you.
Be both confident and organized
Why do you want to review the documents we described above? Because they allow you to speak to the mediator about the specifics of the case. If you’re sitting there through the mediation fumbling through papers and not sure of what they’re asking, then you may make a negative impression on the mediator. If the other parent comes in confident and organized, it could give the impression that they’re better suited to take care of your child.
What the mediator decides is legally binding. This is not a situation to assume you can simply walk into, explain yourself, and have that be enough. You must prepare as though it’s a life or death situation. If you need assistance understanding the legal aspects of your case, feel free to contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell at 909-482-1422.
