refuse to go to Mediation Learn more. Going to court would mean that the case must start all over, as if the mediation never took place. Can you tell me which of the following applies to you: As Deborah suggests above, you have a lot to gain and nothing to lose by giving it a go. There is a presumption that equal time with both parents is in the best interest and absent compelling reasons, the court will mostly likely grant father's request over your objection. Parent Family mediation In The UK services is not only aimed at resolving disputes between grandparents. If both parties cannot agree on a parenting plan and have to go to court, they will likely have to testify against each other. Child custody mediation exists precisely so that parents who just can't seem to agree don't have to take on the financial and emotional costs of court battles. Copyright 2023 MH Sub I, LLC dba Nolo Self-help services may not be permitted in all states. After the parties sign the agreement, a judge will review and sign it. Its a process where parents meet with a mediator who helps them work through any issues and devise a plan for child custody and support. Most child-related issues can be solved in the most pleasant way possible through mediation. Custody mediation helps parents make decisions only about child custody and visitation, not financial issues. Mediation helps preserve and promote family relationships, because it fosters communication and understanding, while minimizing the conflict between you and your ex. An arbitrator, acting as a judge, conducts a hearing between the disputing parties and renders a legally binding decision. If you dont reach an agreement in mediation, then the judge will make the decision about custody and parenting time in your case. To reiterate, even if the case must be submitted to a court after mediation, this does not necessarily mean that the mediation process was not successful. Most family mediators can give couples a real insight in to what the court process is like. Overall, mediation is intended to help disputing parties come to a mutual solution through open communication. Click here to learn more. A mediator cannot work with reluctant participants who are unwilling or unable to listen and engage with the other partner.