Mediation Panel Launches for Family Custody Conflicts

Settling disputes over child custody and support can be done out of court by using a new Family Law Private Mediation Panel serving all corners of Riverside County.

According to the county Superior Court Executive Office, the panel is composed of more than 20 attorney-mediators with expertise in all aspects of family law.

"Costly and stressful adversarial court hearings are rarely in the best interests of the children or the parents," said Indio Family Law Judge Dale Wells. "Mediation gives parties the opportunity to express their concerns in a safe and private environment. With the mediator's help, the parties can reach voluntary agreements that are custom-made for their particular situation."

According to court officials, all mediators have a minimum five years experience, and several are certified family law specialists.

"Family law decisions are so important because they deal with children and family finances," Family Law Judge Jack Lucky said. "The parties understand their needs better than anyone else. Mediation puts control where it should be: with the parties. It allows them to make the best choices for themselves, instead of hoping that a judge, who is a stranger, will make the right decisions for them."

In western Riverside County, mediators are available in Temecula as well as Corona, Hemet, Moreno Valley and Riverside.

Information about the family law panel is available at adr.riverside.courts.ca.gov.

To locate a mediator in a specific area, or by specialty, click here.