Legal Question in Family Law in California

I presume you are referring to child custody mediation through family court services. If so, the answer is yes. However, if the parties stipulate to selecting a qualified private counselor to serve as the recommending mediator, this individual could be selected and allow bypassing the need to appear at the courts designated location for mediation.

I would check with your court in your county. Because, if you were speaking about mediation for custody in either Riverside or San Bernardino Counties, then you would have to use the court mediation. On the other hand, if you are speaking about mediation for all the issues, to help you to work out a settlement, that can occur anywhere. Regardless, I would suggest you speak with a qualified family law attorney in your area. Good luck!