The purposes of a mediation proceeding are as follows:

(a) To reduce acrimony that may exist between the parties.

Terms Used In California Family Code 3161

  • Proceeding: includes an action. See California Family Code 110
  • Settlement: Parties to a lawsuit resolve their difference without having a trial. Settlements often involve the payment of compensation by one party in satisfaction of the other party's claims.

(b) To develop an agreement assuring the child close and continuing contact with both parents that is in the best interest of the child, consistent with Sections 3011 and 3020.

(c) To effect a settlement of the issue of visitation rights of all parties that is in the best interest of the child.

(Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 849, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 1998.)