To start the process of getting custody or visitation, a petition is filed in Family Court. There are five family courts in New York City, including in lower Manhattan, the Bronx, downtown Brooklyn, Jamaica/Queens, and Staten Island. Once the petition is filed, the other parent is served with a summons informing them that custody or visitation is being sought. Custody may then be worked out through a negotiated agreement that is then approved by the court. Or if an agreement cannot be reached, the case may go to mediation for another attempt at resolving it before trial. If that is unsuccessful, the court will hear both sides and determine custody.