Expectations

Legal obligations in Custody Actions

• Mediation:
• In every action filed where child custody is at issue and not agreed between both parents, Arizona law states that both parents must attend mandatory mediation. This is a formal meeting between the parents (together with a mediator but no attorneys) where both try to resolve any issues regarding custody. Any agreements reached are submitted to the attorneys who will formalize the agreements and if no agreement is reached the parents will proceed to settlement negotiations, and if necessary, trial.
• Parent Education Class:
• When parties to an action have minor children in common, they are required to attend a Parent Education Class within 45 days of filing the Petition, or being served the Petition. Parents may be required to attend the class again if a dispute arises and the parties end up back in court