When parents divorce, the divorce decree must establish plans for child custody, visitation/access and child support. Mediation is a process whereby the two parents can present the issues and concerns relative to child custody and welfare, propose plans for custody and visitation/access and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. The Courts generally require the parents attempt Mediation prior to establishing a trial.

The mediator generally allows each party to define their respective issues and then attempts to reach agreement on which issues are relevant. The process then leads towards proposed solutions to the issues. Once solutions are identified, the mediator then works with both parties to try to find the solution that optimally satisfies the “best interests” of the children and both parties.

The Mediator must have specific training. The individual must act as an independent third party, not taking either parents side. The objective is to find common ground upon which acceptable win/win solutions can be generated. It is generally in the best interest of the parents to come to an acceptable agreement rather than let the issues go to trial.