Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC) and Confidential Mediation in California

When parents can't agree on custody or visitation, California law requires them to attend mediation before a judge will make orders. But the process looks different depending on the county.

• In many counties, this process is called Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC). If parents cannot reach agreement, the mediator will write a report and make recommendations to the judge.

• In other counties, mediation is confidential. That means if parents don't agree, the mediator does not share the details of the session with the judge — the process is purely focused on helping the parents try to resolve issues.

Because of this difference, it's critical to know which process your county follows so you can prepare effectively. Our firm helps parents prepare for CCRC and confidential mediation, so they understand what to expect, how to present themselves, and how to keep the focus on their children's best interests.

Why Preparation Matters

Parents often assume mediation is “just a talk.” In reality, it's one of the most important stages of your custody case. Whether your county uses CCRC or confidential mediation, preparation gives you the best chance of reaching a parenting plan that works for your child.

We've seen parents lose valuable parenting time because they went in unprepared, got flustered, or focused on the conflict with the other parent instead of the child's needs.

How We Help

• Explain your county's process: CCRC vs. confidential mediation.

• Prepare you for the session: Identify your parenting goals and create a clear, child-focused proposal.

• Coach you on communication: Present concerns respectfully without appearing hostile or inflexible.

• Debrief afterward: Review any recommendations (if in CCRC) and plan your response.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is mediation required in California custody cases?
Yes. If custody or visitation is contested, you must attend mediation before the judge will decide.

Q: What happens if we don't reach an agreement?

• In CCRC counties, the mediator writes a report and makes recommendations to the judge.

• In confidential counties, nothing is reported. The judge makes orders after a hearing.

Q: How do I know which process my county uses?
It depends on local rules. Some counties (like Butte, Tehama, Glenn) use CCRC. Others (like Plumas and Placer) use confidential mediation. We'll confirm your county's process and help you prepare.

Q: Can my attorney attend mediation with me?
No. Attorneys are not allowed in the mediation session. But we can prepare you beforehand and review the outcome with you afterward.

Q: How much weight do the mediator's recommendations carry?
In CCRC counties, judges usually give them significant weight, especially before testimony is taken. While not binding, they often become the temporary orders and can influence the long-term parenting plan.

Bottom Line

Whether your county uses CCRC or confidential mediation, preparation is key. In CCRC, what you say can directly impact the court's orders. In confidential mediation, it may be your best chance to resolve issues without going to trial.

Our role is to guide you through the process so you walk in prepared, stay focused on your child, and walk out knowing you gave yourself the best chance at a parenting plan that works.