Mediation is a process that helps the people in a family law case reach an agreement about some or all of their issues. Mediation can help reduce the likelihood that a trial will be necessary or reduce the number of things to deal with in a trial. The courts encourage mediation of disagreements in family law cases. Mediation helps keep decisions about what is best for children in the hands of the parents, instead of lawyers or judges who do not know the family. This gives the parents more control over the case and the outcome.
Mediation also can be helpful with divorces or other family separation issues when there are no children. In cases where there are no children, mediation services may not be available through the court. Private mediators can offer services in these situations.