Mediation

a program offered by NYC family courts, where two parents or caregivers can discuss their preferences and come up with a plan for custody and visitation in the presence of another person, who helps smooth any communication issues or misunderstandings. 

During mediation, Elijah’s parents made a plan for when he would visit each of them.

Mediation is a way for parents or caregivers to talk things out and try to agree on a plan outside of the formal courtroom. A trained helper, called a mediator, keeps the conversation respectful and focused on what’s best for the child.

Other pages to check out

Related terms

  • Settlement

    when two parents in a custody/visitation case come to an agreement about arrangements and the judge makes it official.

  • Mediation

    a program offered by NYC family courts where another person helps smooth communication issues between parents or caregivers coming up with a plan.

  • Confidentiality

    our attorney cannot share anything you tell them without your permission. The only time your AFC might share confidential information is when there is a serious safety concern.

  • Best interests of the child

    a rule used in court to make sure that decisions about a child keep them as safe, happy, and healthy as possible.