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, unless they have completed an online orientation within the last two years.
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, and
- 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 will be scheduled.
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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.
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English
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Spanish
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Review the Orientation Packet and Family Code Section 3044
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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.