Grandparent denied visitation, court may order mediation upon written request, purpose
If a grandparent is not allowed to see their grandchild, they can write a simple request to the local court asking for mediation. The court can then set up mediation sessions where a neutral person helps the grandparent and the child's parent or guardian try to come to an agreement about visits. The grandparent asking for mediation pays for it, and it takes place in the county where the child lives. After the third session, either side can stop the mediation if they want.
452.403. Grandparent denied , court may upon written request, purpose — costs — — of mediation, when. — 1. Upon the written request of a grandparent denied visitation with a grandchild, the may order mediation with any who has or with the child and appoint a . Such written request need not follow the and need not be written or filed by an attorney.
2. As used in this section, "mediation" is the by which a neutral mediator appointed by the court assists the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable voluntary and agreement in the as to issues of child care and visitation. The role of the mediator is to aid the parties in identifying the issues, reducing misunderstandings, clarifying priorities, exploring areas of common interest and finding of agreement. An agreement reached by the parties shall be based on the decisions of the parties and not the decisions of the mediator. The agreement reached may resolve all or only some of the disputed issues.
3. At any time after the third mediation session, either party may terminate mediation ordered this section.
4. The costs of the mediation shall be paid by the grandparent requesting the mediation order.
5. The venue shall be in the county where the child resides.
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Source & history notes
(L. 1992 H.B. 1492 § l)
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