CA Child Custody,Vistiation And Mediation

courtinfo.ca.gov, Apr 25, 2006

Mediation
If parents can't agree on custody/visitation on their own, the judge will have the parents meet with Family Court Services to see if an agreement can be reached with the help of a mediator.

Court Hearing
If mediation doesn't work, the judge will make a decision at a hearing. In some courts, the mediator will make a recommendation to the judge about custody/visitation orders. Ask the mediator how the process works in your local court.

The judge may appoint an evaluator to recommend a parenting plan. A parent can also ask for an evaluation, but the request may not be granted. Parents may have to pay for an evaluation.

The judge also may appoint lawyers for children in custody cases.

Child's Needs Come First
The law says that judges must give custody according to what is best for the child. In most cases, judges give custody to one or both parents. But there are times when custody is given to a friend or relative. You should consult a lawyer for information about custody given to non-parents.