Role of Mediator

[nmarhauer]

Is it appropriate for a mediator to say that one party is draconian, and is trying to micro-manage how the ex manages the child? I thought a mediator was supposed to be non-judgmental and encourage the parents to work together.

In California is there a way to complain about a mediator who is in private practice?

This same mediator was not prepared when we arrived (he forgot why we were there) and did not copy both of us when setting up appointment. He deferred to my ex-husband.

 

[irish223]

Is it appropriate for a mediator to say that one party is draconian, and is trying to micro-manage how the ex manages the child? I thought a mediator was supposed to be non-judgmental and encourage the parents to work together.

In California is there a way to complain about a mediator who is in private practice?

This same mediator was not prepared when we arrived (he forgot why we were there) and did not copy both of us when setting up appointment. He deferred to my ex-husband.

Here's a link to the CA court web page that explains mediation. Halfway down the page, there is a link for the Family Law Facilitator. If you want to complain, I would start there.

http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp/family/custody/focus.htm#happens

I wonder though if you would prefer the mediator express his feelings about the situation during your meetings, or just wait and present a report, with those words, to the judge. If he believes that you micro-manage, I don't think it's inappropriate for him to say that in an attempt to help the two of you reach some agreement. I would rather try to work it out in mediation than be blindsided in the courtroom. Just my opinion.