Family Court Services (“Mediation”)

If your case involves child custody or visitation issues, both parties will likely be ordered to participate in Child Custody Recommending Counseling, or “Mediation.”  During this mediation, you will talk with a family law counselor who will make custody and visitation recommendations for the Family Court Judge.  A Judge will then read over these recommendations, and often adopts to recommendation as an order.

Because mediation reports are so integral to the Judge’s order, preparing for mediation is crucial.  While attorney’s are not allowed in mediation proceedings, Brittany works with each of her clients right before their mediation appointment to review the circumstances of their case, so that they can be confident the mediator will have an accurate understanding of their situation.

Overcoming a negative mediation recommendation in front of a Judge can be challenging.  The Judges work closely with the mediators and regularly depend on them to provide accurate depictions of each family’s situation.  However, a negative mediation review can be overcome.  If you have already attended mediation, and are not satisfied with the mediators recommendations, contact Brittany right away so that you can fight the mediation report before the Judge adopts the recommendation as an order!

Scheduling a Mediation Appointment

Appointments with Family Court Services can be made by phone by calling (925) 608-2065, or in person at the Spinetta Family Law Center between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday.  Any person participating in mediation must complete the mandatory online orientation, and fill out a Parent Intake Form at the conclusion of the orientation.