To have the best possible legal outcome, remember these tips:

1. Gather all of the relevant facts and documents that may be helpful to your legal issues. Keep a written timeline of events or detailed log of events that have occurred. Keep it factually accurate and be as complete as possible.
2. Important documents to gather: Driver’s License, Passport, or other Government issued identification, employment authorization, social security cards, children’s birth certificates, a list of addresses you and your family have resided at for the past 5 years, school registration documents, proof of employment, payroll stubs or records, tax returns and W-2.
3. If you have a pending case, remember to bring copies of all your case files. Gather your case number, name of all parties involved, and copies of all documents filed in the case. If you need to obtain copies of your court records, you must request them from the Court Record’s Department. Be prepared to the Court Clerk your name and the Case Number.

Mediation is a process that allows parents the opportunity to discuss a parenting plan for the care of the children. Prior to attending Mediation, parties must attend Orientation. Orientation can be completed online and you will learn important facts regarding child custody, the mediation process, emotional issues and the children’s needs, parenting and parent communication. Mediation appointments are generally made after you have completed orientation. When Family Court Services has received the intake information from all parties, an appointment for mediation will be mailed to you at the address you provide. Each party may reschedule their mediation appointment once by calling Family Court Services at 408-534-5760

1. If you have real property, it is important to gather copies of all grant deeds, mortgage statements, property tax statements, and any other documents pertaining to your interest in the property.
2. If you have bank accounts, it is important to gather copies of all your bank statements, deposit and withdrawal receipts, and bank account numbers.
3. For all debts, it is important to gather copies of your recent credit report, bank statements, bills, mortgage or loan statements, promissory notes, and credit card statements. 

If you believe you cannot afford to pay for your court filing fee, you may be eligible for a fee waiver. In order to determine if you qualify, you will need to prepare fee waiver forms. You must submit detailed information about your monthly income and expenses. After you are done completing the forms, you will need to submit it to the Court for determination.