Do we have to go to mediation?

With exceptions for undue hardship or endangerment to one of the parties, an initial session of mediation is required in any action affecting the family where it appears that legal custody or physical placement is contested. If an agreement is reached in mediation, it must be reviewed by the parties’ attorneys and the GAL and be approved by the court. If no agreement is reached, the matter is referred for a legal custody or physical placement study and the issues are resolved through court procedures.