Mediation is non-binding, which means that you aren’t required to leave the session with a resolution. If mediation fails the people have one of two options. They can drop the case and walk away. Otherwise they can take the dispute to court.
In Washington family disputes, most parties are required to mediate before they have a chance to go to trial. Court’s prefer, especially in family cases, for people to choose what’s best without court involvement. This is important to understand because even if your mediation fails, it is a required step in the legal process to get a final outcome.