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Preparing for Mediation

Compiling Financial Records

​In Florida family law cases, both parties are required to make a full and honest financial disclosure. This requirement comes from Florida Family Law Rule of Procedure 12.285, also known as the “Mandatory Disclosure Rule.” The purpose of this rule is simple: both sides should have access to the same financial information before making important decisions about property, support, or parenting.  The rule ensures fairness by requiring everyone to put their cards on the table. The most common records include:

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  • Last 3 months of pay stubs or proof of income

  • Last 3 years of tax returns (including W-2s, 1099s, and schedules)

  • Bank account statements (checking, savings, money market) for the past 3 months

  • Credit card and loan statements for the past 3 months

  • Retirement account and investment account statements for the past year

  • Deeds, mortgage statements, and property tax records for real estate you own

  • Insurance policy information (health, life, auto, etc.)

  • Documentation of monthly expenses, childcare, tuition, or outstanding debts


By exchanging this information, both parties come to mediation on equal footing. Instead of arguing over incomplete or hidden details, you’ll have the full financial picture in front of you. This makes it easier to reach fair agreements on child support, alimony, and division of assets and debts.


If you would like to see all of the documents that fall under Mandatory Disclosure and a sample Certificate of Compliance, click here.
 

For a sample Financial Affidavit for individuals making under $50,000 annually, click here.  For those making over $50,000, click here.

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Children Running

Parenting Plans

In every Florida custody or time-sharing case, the court requires parents to have a Parenting Plan. This is a written document that outlines how both parents will share responsibilities and spend time with their child. The goal is to provide stability, reduce conflict, and make sure the child’s best interests are always the top priority.

A Parenting Plan is more than just a calendar of when the child will be with each parent. It is a comprehensive agreement that addresses:
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  • Time-Sharing Schedule – Weekdays, weekends, holidays, and vacations

  • Decision-Making Authority – Who makes choices about school, health care, religion, and activities

  • Methods of Communication – How parents will share information about the child

  • Transportation Arrangements – How the child will be picked up and dropped off

  • Special Provisions – Any unique needs of the child or family


During mediation, parents have the opportunity to create a Parenting Plan that reflects their child’s needs and works with their family’s daily routines. When parents reach an agreement together, they are more likely to follow the plan and avoid future disputes. If the parents cannot agree, a judge will decide for them — which may result in a plan that feels less personalized. Mediation gives parents a chance to maintain control and build a cooperative foundation for co-parenting.

The official Florida Supreme Court–approved Parenting Plan forms are available online:

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