These frequently asked questions introduce you to the process. Things are so bitter between my ex and me that it's hard to see us sitting down together to work things out. I've heard that mediation is the best approach to solving disagreements about child custody. The mediator does not have power to impose a solution on the parties, but assists them in creating an agreement of their own. There are several important reasons why mediation is a superior method to litigation for resolving custody and visitation disputes.
Mediation usually produces a settlement after five to ten hours of mediation over a week or two.
Mediation enhances communication between the couple and makes it much more likely that they will be able to cooperate after the divorce or separation when it comes to raising their children. Experts who have studied the effects of divorce on children universally conclude that when divorcing or separating parents can cooperate, the children suffer far less. How to find a family law mediator Several states require mediation in custody and visitation disputes and a number of others allow courts to order mediation. In these situations, the court will direct the parents to the mediator and will pay for the services. Parents can also find and pay for the mediator themselves.