When parents separate or divorce, decisions need to be made about where the children will live and how they will be cared for. These are important decisions. Sometimes they are also the most difficult. California law states that when parents cannot reach an agreement, they must first meet with a professional mediator before they can go to court.

A mediator meets with both parents, listens to each of you, then works with you so you can come up with a plan you can both agree is best for your child. The mediator's job is to be impartial, keep things fair, help look at different options, help you come up with a calendar for times with the children, and support you in your efforts. Currently our South Lake Tahoe branch offers mediation services in both English and Spanish.