Parents who divorce or separate in California have many difficult discussions ahead of them. They typically need to arrange to share their parental rights and responsibilities with each other. There is a standard expectation that parents should cooperate with each other for the benefit of their children.
Mediation is usually mandatory
The California family courts law overtly encourages parental cooperation during custody disputes. In fact, it is standard practice to require that those who disagree about custody matters attend mediation before long-term orders are made.
This approach helps to take pressure off the family courts and give parents an opportunity to resolve their conflicts with an outcome that both parties can live with. Parents can potentially resolve their disagreements about custody matters through direct communication and cooperation at a mediation session.
Why mediation helps
Different families have different schedules, needs, and preferences. Attending mediation can often lend to resolutions that ultimately benefit both parents and ultimately, their children.
Embracing custody mediation as both necessary and potentially beneficial can help parents achieve the best outcome possible in a difficult custody situation. If mediation is successful, parents ultimately get to set their own terms for their parenting arrangements.
