Mediation
For private custody cases, we believe that whenever possible, the best way forward is to identify solutions that come from a place of agreement and shared interest, as opposed to Court-imposed rulings.
That’s why Hamilton County Juvenile Court offers mediation. Our trained, neutral, third-party facilitators guide families through a process designed to find common ground in the best interest of children. Agreements reached during mediation can be put on the record and formally adopted by the Court.
If your case is set for mediation, you are encouraged to prepare by thinking about areas of compromise. The short video below will give you some insight on the best way to approach the mediation process.
If parties are unable to reach an agreement in mediation, the case proceeds through formal Court proceedings. With very few exceptions, what’s shared in mediation is not admissible in a formal court setting. Mediation is a confidential process.
Magistrates may schedule cases for mediations as they see fit. If you are interested in having your case mediated, please discuss with your attorney and/or assisted Magistrate.
“Settlement Week can be beneficial for all involved. The parties have the opportunity to work with an experienced mediator to settle their disputes expeditiously, outside of court, saving the time and expense of going to trial.”
– Ohio Supreme Court
In August, 2025, Hamilton County Juvenile Court hosted our first Settlement Week, an initiative of the Ohio Supreme Court to help alleviate backlog and timelines to mediate private custody cases. During Settlement Week, the Court offered increased capacity for in-person mediations, and a magistrate to adopt same day agreements. Community partners were also on site to share resource information, and the Court provided access to bus passes, snacks, and hygiene bags to support children and families.
Please stay tuned for information about our next Settlement Week.