The FOC offers alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services to help parents resolve custody, parenting time, and support disputes. The types of ADR service utilized by Montcalm County Friend of the Court include FOC domestic relations mediation, facilitative and information-gathering conferences, and joint meeting.
FOC domestic relations mediation is a process in which a neutral third party facilitates confidential communications between the parties to explore solutions to settle custody and parenting time or support issues for FOC cases.
Facilitative and information-gathering conference is a process in which a facilitator assists the parties in reaching an agreement regarding custody, parenting time, and support If the parties fail to reach an agreement, the facilitator may prepare a report and/or recommended order.
Joint meetings are a process in which a facilitator discusses proposed solutions with the parties to a custody or parenting time complaint or an objection to an FOC support recommendation.
For more information on these types of ADR services, please access the Administrative Order for Alternative Dispute Resolution (PDF).