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PHONE SCAM ALERT

: in more than a dozen states, including California, reports have been filed regarding calls from people claiming to be court officials or law enforcement officers. Do not provide any information having to do with your bank or credit card to anyone claiming to be an officer of the court or of the law. If you receive communication from someone requesting your personal information, immediately contact the fraud unit of your local police department. Be advised that although court personnel may contact you by telephone, they will never ask for your personal or credit card information.

Child Custody Recommending Counseling

Mediation

Family Court Services is responsible for coordinating Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC), also referred to as mediation. In family law cases involving child custody and visitation, both parents of the child will be referred to a Child Custody Recommending Counselor (Counselor).

Prior to scheduling a CCRC appointment, each parent is required to first complete an online orientation.

Counselors are mental health professionals who have experience working with children and families. Counselors meet with both parents to discuss issues regarding child custody, visitation, and parenting plans.

The goals of the CCRC are to:

  • Help parents to create parenting plans that are in the best interests of their children.
  • Consider the health, safety, and well-being of the children.
  • Help reduce the hostility or conflict between the parents,

After meeting with the parents, the Counselor will prepare a written report for the judge that contains any agreements that the parents have reached and/or the recommendations of the Counselor.

Child Custody Recommending Counseling Orientation

After both parties have completed orientation and the intake form, a mediation appointment may be scheduled.

  • Click and watch the video below

    The orientation video includes important information about helping children through parental separation and offers advice on how to develop a parenting plan. The video must be reviewed every 2 years. 

    •  
      English
    •  
      Spanish

  • Review the Orientation Packet and Family Code Section 3044

    Orientation Packet FC 3044

  • Each parent must complete the CCRC Intake Form

    The intake form requests information regarding various topics that pertain to you, the other party, and your children. The form must be completed in one sitting, therefore we recommend that before starting the form, you gather the following, if applicable and available: arrest/conviction records, restraining order records, CWS encounter history, and counseling/mental health records. This form must be completed within the last 6 months prior to attending CCRC. 

    Intake Form