Initial Filing or Modifications Needed
The first step is determining if there is a current Child Custody order made by the court that needs to be modified or if appropriate documents need to be filed to initiate a matter.
Potential Parenting Orientation
In many counties, parents are required to complete an online or in-person parent orientation program. This program provides information about the impact of separation on children and how to develop a parenting plan.
Mediation
Mediation is a mandatory step in California child custody cases. The parties meet with a court-appointed mediator to attempt to resolve custody and visitation disputes. If no agreement is reached through mediation, the mediator may provide a report to the court outlining unresolved issues and, in some cases, recommendations.
Court Hearing
If the parties cannot reach an agreement through mediation or settlement agreement, the matter proceeds to a court hearing. The court considers evidence, including the mediator’s report, custody evaluation, and any other relevant information, to make a custody determination based on the best interests of the child.
