What Is a Case Management Conference?
A divorce case management conference is a key opportunity for a married couple to discuss the details of their divorce settlement. These conferences provide a forum for spouses to communicate openly about issues such as property division, child custody, and finances.
What is a case management conference?
This conference is a formal meeting typically held after the initial divorce proceedings – after the divorce petition, response, and financial affidavits have been filed – but before any settlements have been reached or a trial scheduled. At this conference, you can expect to meet with your spouse as well as any other parties involved in the divorce proceedings. Your primary purpose is to move the divorce case forward in an efficient and effective manner. Issues covered may include the following:
- The division of property and assets
- Spousal support
- Child custody arrangements
Both parties typically have an opportunity to present their arguments for how they would like these issues to be resolved. It’s important to prepare beforehand and be willing to negotiate in good faith to achieve a favorable outcome for yourself and your family. It's also important to know that you may not reach an agreement on matters. That's okay, as the main goal is to make sure the parties are speaking and making efforts to settle their disputes.
A divorce case management conference is essentially a status check to make sure everyone is on the same page about the divorce case.
What is a case management order?
A case management order is a formal legal document that establishes the parameters for managing a divorce case. It may include things like deadlines for various court appearances and specific actions that must be taken to move the divorce case forward.
In some cases, a case management order won’t be needed. In other cases, the steps or actions in the order are necessary for the divorce proceedings to conclude with a final settlement agreement. The judge has the ultimate say in whether a case management order is required.
While most divorce cases involve at least one case management conference before the final divorce decree can be issued (or the divorce can go to trial), it’s not always necessary. In some cases, the judge may issue separate orders related to specific aspects of the divorce without convening a conference.
Case management conferences are not always required. It depends on the laws of your jurisdiction and the nature of your divorce case.
How to prepare for a case management conference
To prepare for a divorce case management conference, gather all the necessary paperwork and documentation ahead of time. This may include financial records, personal information about your situation and relationship with your spouse, and other relevant documents the judge requests or that could be used to support your case.
The duration of the conference depends on the complexity of your situation. Typically, these conferences last anywhere from a few hours to a full day or longer. It can be helpful to come prepared with questions or concerns in mind as well as an idea of what you would like to achieve through the process.
What’s the difference between a case management conference and an initial status conference?
Whereas a case management conference focuses on moving the divorce process forward, an initial status conference is primarily aimed at setting the tone for the divorce proceedings and gathering all relevant information from each party at the beginning stages. At a case management conference, you can expect to have your legal matters discussed, while at an initial status conference, you may be asked to provide more detailed information about your situation, or you might be given a timeline for key actions to be taken.
If you’re facing an upcoming case management conference and want legal guidance, we can help. Click here to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation and here to read about our flat-rate sessions with an attorney.
FAQs
What is a case management conference (CMC) in a divorce?
An early court meeting to check progress, set deadlines, and plan the next steps so the case moves efficiently.
Do I have to attend the CMC?
Usually yes. Courts often require both parties to attend; some allow remote appearances.
What do we talk about at the CMC?
Service, disclosures, temporary needs, discovery, mediation, and scheduling future dates.
Do I need to file anything before the CMC?
Often a brief CMC statement or questionnaire and proof of service—follow your notice.
Can the judge make orders at the CMC?
Yes. The judge can set schedules, order mediation, and make temporary or procedural orders.
What happens if I miss the CMC?
You risk delays, unfavorable scheduling, or sanctions. Request a continuance or remote appearance if needed.
Step-by-Step: Getting Ready for Your Case Management Conference
Review your CMC notice and local rules
Confirm the date, appearance method, and any pre-filing requirements.
File any required CMC statement
Submit the form or short statement and serve the other side by the deadline.
Organize disclosures and service proof
Have proof of service and initial financial disclosures ready.
List your key issues and proposals
Identify needs like mediation, discovery, or temporary orders, plus proposed timelines.
Attend the CMC and be concise
Show up on time, answer questions directly, and focus on scheduling.
Get the orders in writing and calendar deadlines
Read the minute order and set reminders for every date and task.
