§ 3178 Mediation Agreements For Custody

Family Code·California

AI SummaryReview recommended

When families use mediation to settle disputes, the agreement they reach can only cover certain topics.

Key Takeaways

•Mediation agreements are limited to specific issues.
•If the dispute is about custody or visitation, the agreement can only cover parenting plans, custody, and visitation.
•If a stepparent or grandparent wants visitation rights, the agreement can only address visitation.

Example

A divorced couple goes to mediation to decide where their kids will live and how often each parent will see them.

The mediation agreement can only include things like the parenting plan, who has custody, and the visitation schedule—nothing else.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 3178 Mediation Agreements For Custody

An agreement reached by the parties as a result of mediation shall be limited as follows: (a)Where mediation is required to settle a contested issue of custody or visitation, the agreement shall be limited to the resolution of issues relating to parenting plans, custody, visitation, or a combination of these issues. (b)Where a stepparent or grandparent seeks visitation rights, the agreement shall be limited to the resolution of issues relating to visitation.

Last verified: February 26, 2026

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Family Code. Section 3178.

Key Takeaways

Example

Related Statutes

References

Key Takeaways

Example

Related Statutes

References