Any time there is a request for custody or visitation orders in a family law case, the parties are required to attend mediation. Mediation is automatically set by the court whenever a Request for Order for custody or visitation is filed with the court.
In California, child custody mediation is a mandatory process (under Family Code Section 3170) that provides parents an opportunity to discuss and resolve issues relating to the best interests of the children. Mediation is a confidential process conducted by a highly trained Court Mediator who assists the parents by facilitating a cooperative dialogue focusing on the developmentally appropriate needs of their children. It is the task of the Court Mediation to create a safe, neutral setting in which parents may discuss and resolve issues related to the parenting of their children.
Child custody mediation is conducted by Court Mediators who are skilled professionals with at least a Master’s Degree and extensive clinical experience in the field of psychology, marriage, family and child counseling.
At mediation there are no attorneys. You meet with the Mediator and with the other parent to try to resolve custody and visitation issues only. If there is a history of domestic violence, please let Family Court Services know when you check in and they will make arrangements to separate you.
Again, mediation is court ordered and is mandatory. Failure to attend mediation may result in a monetary fine or a delay in your court hearing. Mediation is held at the Orange County Superior Court, Lamoreaux Justice Center, located at 341 The City Drive, Fifth Floor, Room 507, Orange, California 92868-3209. Your specific appointment date and time will be provided to you once one is set.
Attached is an informational letter and pamphlet from Mediation Services regarding what to expect at mediation, and a pamphlet on Mediation Services, for your review.