Child Custody Mediation in LA County – What to Expect?

SuccessfulTalk8267 · 2026-06-25T20:10:37+00:00

Expect nothing and you won't be disappointed I'm sorry to say that

VintageTool · 2025-03-06T18:49:26+00:00

It sounds like you are referring to the child custody evaluator that works for the court as opposed to an independent mediator. In this case, they will talk to both parents to get an understanding of each of their concerns, as well as the children so long as they are old enough. The evaluator is basically looking to see if there are any claims of abuse or neglect by one parent or the other, if there are any concerning habits by one parent, and that the children are bonded to each of them. Basically any reason why not to give the parent's custody.

In California, you are very likely to get a recommendation of 50% custody so long as you work normal hours, are not a habitual user of drugs or alcohol, the children are bonded to you, you have the ability to meet their daily needs for food/shelter/care, and you desire to take the responsibility on.

The evaluator will attempt to find a compromise on holiday schedule, the custody arrangement, etc. If you two cannot agree on the order then the evaluators decision will be sent to the court. That evaluator may be called as witness and the court will mostly follow what they recommend as they are a neutral 3rd party.

It's pretty difficult and costly to change later if you two cannot agree on things so best to think through what you really want. The courts hate to change the kid's routine, excepting to gravitate towards "significant" time with both parents (if it makes sense) and looser rules/schedules as the kids get older.

downtempodojo · 2025-03-06T05:22:51+00:00

Don't back down on what you want. Once it's been decided it will be hard to change. Men are seen as less than women by the courts so be prepared to fight if you want 50%.

InternJimmy07 · 2025-03-05T11:18:17+00:00

Most mediation is a waste if one party is refusing to change there stance. I went through several rounds of mediation and all we accomplished was pissing off the mediator and getting thrown out. Good luck to you

Title	Child Custody Mediation in LA County – What to Expect?
Author	Ssla1
Upvotes	2
Comments	13
Date	March 5, 2025 5:41 AM UTC (1 year ago)
Subreddit	Posted in /r/Divorce_Men
Original Link	https://old.reddit.com/r/Divorce_Men/comments/1j3w5gz/child_custody_mediation_in_la_county_what_to/
Archive Link	https://theredarchive.com/r/Divorce_Men/child-custody-mediation-in-la-county-what-to.1545637 https://theredarchive.com/post/1545637

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