Going to family court is a nerve-wracking experience for most people, especially if you are self-represented (in pro per). This checklist is designed to help you track your family court experience. We encourage you take this handout with you to mediation and to court. This checklist is based on Family Code Sections 5.210 and 5.215, which outline how family law cases should be handled (www.courtinfo.ca.gov). If the items in this form are not addressed to your satisfaction, please alert your mediator or the judge. Further assistance is available through the Family Court Reformers. You are welcome to contact us at (530) 559-0826.
MEDIATION CHECKLIST
Time of Court Appointment:
Time Your Case was Called:
Time Mediation Appointment Began:
Time Mediation Appointment Ended:
Total Time Spent in Mediation (Note: the statewide average is 90-100 minutes):
Is there a history of domestic violence (DV) in your case? Y/N
If so, were you offered a separate mediation session without your abuser being present? Y/N
Were you reminded that you could have a support person accompany you into mediation? Y/N
Did the mediator interview you and the other parent about DV? Y/N
Are there any allegations of substance abuse and/or mental health problems in your case? Y/N
If so, did the mediator take steps to address these concerns (for example, was an assessment ordered? Was anyone asked to provide proof of treatment?) Y/N
Does either parent have a criminal history? Y/N
If so, did the mediator run a criminal background check? Y/N/ Unknown
Did you ask the mediator to make collateral contacts (i.e. to talk to a teacher about school performance, or a therapist about attendance at appointments)? Y/N
If so, did the mediator contact the necessary parties? Y/N
Did the mediator review your file prior to the start of mediation? (Note: circle “no” if the mediator admits that there wasn’t enough time to review the file, or if the mediator was unaware of important facts contained in your legal file). Y/N
Did you at any time (in court or mediation) feel pressured to make an agreement? (Examples of pressure include “If you don’t make an agreement, you’ll have to spend thousands of dollars on a custody evaluation” or “Your children may end up committing suicide if you two can’t learn to get along.”) Y/N