If you are filing for a change in child custody or visitation in Los Angeles, there is one step you cannot skip: Mandatory Mediation. Known officially as Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC), this process is a prerequisite before any judge will hear your case in the Stanley Mosk Courthouse or any regional LA branch. Navigating these sessions successfully requires preparation. For professional guidance, see our list of theTop Family Law Attorneys in Los Angeles: 2026 Rankings for Divorce, Custody, and Alimony, or explore our broader resource, Family Law in California: A Complete Guide to Your Legal Rights (2026 Edition).
What is Mandatory Mediation (CCRC)?
In Los Angeles County, the court requires parents to meet with a neutral third party—a court-appointed mediator—to attempt to create a parenting plan. The goal is to reach an agreement that serves the “best interests of the child” without the need for a stressful and expensive trial.
Key Rule: In LA County, if you and the other parent do not reach an agreement, the mediator will make a written recommendation to the judge. This makes the mediation session one of the most critical stages of your entire legal journey.
The 3-Step Process in Los Angeles
1. The Orientation (Online or In-Person)
Before your mediation date, LA County requires both parents to complete an orientation program. This covers the mediation process, the impact of divorce on children, and how to stay focused on co-parenting.
2. The Mediation Session
You will meet with a Child Custody Recommending Counselor. These are mental health professionals (usually LCSWs or MFCCs) with specific expertise in family dynamics.
- Duration: Sessions typically last 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Confidentiality: Unlike private mediation, CCRC is not fully confidential. The mediator’s report becomes part of the court file.
The Mediator’s Recommendation
If an agreement is reached, the mediator drafts a “Stipulation and Order” for the judge to sign. If you disagree, the mediator submits a recommendation to the judge, who will likely use it as the baseline for their final ruling.
How to Prepare for Your LA County Mediation
To ensure the best outcome for your family, keep these three strategies in mind:
- Focus on the Child: Avoid using the session to air grievances about your ex-spouse. The mediator only cares about the child’s schedule, safety, and emotional well-being.
- Bring a Proposed Schedule: Do not show up empty-handed. Have a clear idea of holidays, school breaks, and weekly transitions.
- Stay Flexible: The court favors parents who demonstrate a willingness to facilitate “frequent and continuing contact” with the other parent.
What if Domestic Violence is Involved?
In cases where there is a history of domestic violence or a restraining order in place, you have the right to separate mediation sessions. You can request to meet with the counselor at a different time or in a different room than the other party to ensure your safety and ability to speak freely.
Next Steps
Mandatory mediation can be intimidating, but it is also an opportunity to keep control of your family’s future rather than leaving it entirely to a judge.
For more specific advice on how to present your case during CCRC, consult our guide on the Top Family Law Attorneys in Los Angeles. If you are looking for information on financial support following a custody decision, read our update on How Alimony is Calculated din California (2026) or return to our central hub: Family Law in California: A Complete Guide to Your Legal Rights (2026 Edition).