There is nothing wrong with one parent, presumably whoever was the primary caregiver before separation, having primary custody after separation. Children of separating parents will have many changes to adapt to as it is. There may be a move, there will almost surely be a drop in standard of living, there will be feelings of anxiety and insecurity and new relationships with both parents to establish. Further changes, such as who is the primary caregiver, should be minimized. This should be rejected.
Mediation is an excellent form of dispute resolution for two people who are equally positioned.
Two parents who can treat one another with respect and who hold equal amounts of power in their relationship can often work out the details of their separation with the assistance of a mediator. However, this should be a voluntary decision by both parties. Mediation should never be mandatory. This is inappropriate, and where there is a history of violence or abuse, may place the woman and children at risk. These recommendations again do not recognize the reality of violence faced by many women and children within their families.