Family Mediation

Mediation is an opportunity for everyone to be heard where you and your family can develop your solutions for your concerns.

Family conflicts can be emotionally charged and have an enormous impact on the lives of those involved.  Mediation is neutral and voluntary process that provides an environment for families to express their needs, be heard, and constructively address conflicts; providing a better chance that everyone involved can live the outcome.

Any family living in a county served by Mediation Matters can utilize our services, whether you are referred by a court, social service agency, or seek out mediation on your own.

Below are some examples of family disputes where mediation can be utilized.

• Resolving co-parenting issues involving parents living apart and sharing child-care responsibilities.
• Coming to agreements about custody, visitation, and child support.
• Challenges between parents/guardians and adolescent children.
• Disputes between family members and other relatives.
• PINS diversion cases referred by probation departments and the department of social services.
• Siblings and extended family members making decisions about elder care issues.
• Addressing issues that arise in deciding how to care for family members with disabilities (to learn more about different programs, visit the Specialized Matters page).

The list above is far from exhaustive. Mediation can be used to settle disputes, begin repairing relationships, and generate solutions to family concerns that might not otherwise be considered. To learn more about mediation, visit the What is Mediation? and Mediation FAQ pages.