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Legal Information: Iowa

Custody

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Updated: 
November 3, 2023

What is mediation?

Mediation is a way to try to resolve a dispute without going to trial. A mediator is a trained third party who works with you and the other parent to come to an agreement. You and the other parent would attend one or more sessions with the mediator where you would each get to say what you want and why. Then you would get a chance to respond to each other’s proposal to hopefully reach an agreement. You have the right to have your lawyer present for the mediation.1

During a divorce or custody and visitation case, the judge may order you and the other parent to take part in mediation. However, you can ask the judge to waive mediation if you have a history of domestic abuse.2

1 IA ST § 598.7(4)(a), (4)(c)
2 IA ST § 598.7(1)

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