Family Mediation is an opportunity for parents to resolve custody and visitation issues with the help of a trained mediator.  It does not include financial or property issues.

Family Mediation is required by law in all custody and visitation disputes. When mediation leads to an agreed upon Parenting Plan, that plan is signed by the Family Court Judge and becomes an order of the Court. In those cases that are unable to resolve their custody and visitation conflicts through mediation, a hearing is set and the matter is then decided by a Judge. In Mendocino County, Family Mediation is confidential. In those cases that have not been able to agree upon a Parenting Plan, mediators do not make recommendations or write reports to the Court.