Mediation is offered by the Superior Court under the authority of Arizona law (ARS § 12-2238(F) and Maricopa County local rule 6.10. Mediation provides an opportunity for parents to make their own decisions about their children following separation or divorce. In Maricopa County, mediation of Legal Decision Making and visitation disputes is encouraged by the judges of the Family Court Department; in fact it is required in most Family Court actions where disputes over children are involved.

In post decree matters, Parties themselves may request mediation by submitting a Petition for Mediation or they may be ordered by the Court to attend. Although parents may be ordered to attend mediation, they will not be pressured to reach an agreement.

The mediation process directly involves both parents in developing a parenting plan which addresses decision-making responsibilities and how children will spend time with each parent. The focus of mediation is on the future rather than the past. While not every family will resolve all disputes regarding the future care of their children, most parents find mediation useful in defining their ongoing relationships with and responsibilities for their children.

Mediation is not a substitute for legal advice. Parents can make their own plans and decisions while continuing to receive legal advice from their attorneys.

Mediation Frequently Asked Questions and Conciliation Court Services