What documents did the judge suddenly request during the visitation mediation? [Real Experience]

I thought that the visitation mediation would proceed based on the documents submitted in advance.

However, at the end of the mediation, the judge gave an unexpected instruction.

"Please summarize and submit in writing the specific behavior of the child during visitations and overnight stays over the last three months."

I answered "I understand" on the spot, but after returning home, I started thinking about what I should write.

Fortunately, I had recorded the dates and locations of the visitations and kept photos, so I was able to organize them while remembering each one.

The flow of the day and things I was glad I prepared

The other day, there was a mediation hearing regarding visitation.

I hope this will be helpful for those who have a visitation mediation coming up, so I will summarize the flow of the day, the questions asked by the judge, and the things I was glad I prepared.

Flow of the day

First, the judge confirmed the documents and investigation details that had been submitted so far.

After that, I was asked questions about the current situation, and the other party's proceedings were conducted.

Finally, there was an explanation of the next hearing date, and the judge gave an instruction to submit in writing, as specifically as possible, the child's behavior during visitations and overnight stays over the last three months.

Questions asked by the judge

The questions asked were mainly the following two points:

・Regarding the history of involvement by the police or child consultation centers in the past

・Regarding current work hours and days off

Regarding the police and child consultation centers, I explained the circumstances at the time, stated that it had been resolved on the spot, and conveyed that I am currently living without any problems.

Regarding work, I explained my current working hours and days off.

Things I was glad I prepared

There were several things I felt glad I had prepared in advance for this mediation.

First, I had submitted in advance a document detailing the situation on days when visitation did not take place (non-fulfillment) and the conditions for visitation that I desired.

Also, because I took photos every time we met, I was able to recall the events of the day by looking back at the photos when the judge asked me to submit a document describing the visitation sessions.

Furthermore, by recording the dates of visitation on a monthly basis, I was able to immediately confirm the number of visits and the dates and times, which I felt made it easier to prepare the documents.

To those who will be undergoing a trial

What I felt through this trial is the importance of keeping records on a daily basis.

It is helpful when preparing documents later if you record not only the dates and number of visits, but also where you went, how the child spent their time, and, if there was an overnight stay, what their daily life was like.

I also felt that it is important to convey the details of the visitation you desire to the court specifically and without hesitation.

This time, the judge asked me to specifically submit details about the child's condition during visits and overnight stays over the last three months. I intend to continue preparing documents based on facts while looking back at photos and records as I face the trial.

I hope this article will be helpful to those who are facing mediation or trial for visitation.