When you want custody orders in San Diego, you need to decide who will have custody of your children and how they will be taken care of. If you can’t agree, you must meet with a professional San Diego mediator before you can go to court.　 Even if there are existing custody orders and you are requesting a modification, you will still be required to meet with a mediator to try to agree on a parenting schedule before you go to court.

In mediation, the mediator will help you make a parenting plan that’s in the best interest of your children; help you make a parenting plan that lets your children spend time with both parents; and help you learn ways to deal with anger or resentment.
Mediation can be a way to make decisions about your children without going to court. You and the other parent can make your own agreement for how you will take care of your children. The legal word for this agreement is “stipulation.” It is also called a “parenting plan” or a “parenting agreement.”

Although mediators are experienced in counseling, mediation is not counseling. A mediator meets with both parents and helps them try to agree on a plan that is best for their child. The mediator’s job is to: listen to both of you, be neutral, help you look at different options, help you decide when the child will be with each parent, help you decide how future decisions about your child will be made, and help you consider how best to protect your child’s safety and welfare.

It is important to retain the services of a knowledgeable San Diego Family Law attorney because we can assist you in preparing for mediation, assist you in coming up with a schedule that you want to propose to the mediator, and help you get the most out of mediation.　 Wallin & Klarich has more than 30 years of experience in family law. Our attorneys know from long experience in custody cases, and are prepared to fight to get you the best possible outcome. With 16 attorneys in 33 offices throughout Southern California, we can be there when you need us — wherever you are. If you’re thinking of hiring an attorney for a custody matter, call us today at 1-888-749-7428 for a consultation.