The West Virginia judiciary has instituted rules in the family court system requiring parents to mediate parenting issues when they cannot reach agreement. A judge can order mediation during divorce or custody proceedings or when a parent petitions to modify an existing parenting plan.

Mediation allows parents to develop a plan that meets the needs of their family. Mediated agreements can be creative and contain unique provisions that might not be ordered if the matter is litgated in court.

If parties fail to reach agreement through mediation, they can litigate the issue before a judge.

Although the court only orders mediation to resolve parenting issues, mediation can also be effective for couples trying to settle other divorce issues, such as spousal support and property division.

For knowledgeable and effective child custody litigation and mediators, consult an experienced family law attorney at Kaufman & McPherson, PLLC.