Know Your County
In about 30 of California’s 58 counties, the mediator writes a recommendation the judge reads before your hearing. Rule #1 tells you how to find out — and why it changes how you prepare.
Say It Right
“Our child,” never “my child.” Facts plus proposals, never accusations. The language that builds credibility with the mediator — and the phrases that quietly cost parents their case.
Protect Yourself
Your rights in the room: separate sessions where there’s a DV history, support persons, and the one sentence every parent should memorize — “I’d like to review this before signing.”