{"code":"FAM","codeName":"Family Code","section":"3171","citation":"Fam. Code, § 3171","status":"in-force","lawOn":"2026-09-28","headings":[{"name":"DIVISION 8. CUSTODY OF CHILDREN [3000. - 3465.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/family-code/division-8"},{"name":"PART 2. RIGHT TO CUSTODY OF MINOR CHILD [3020. - 3204.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/family-code/division-8/part-2"},{"name":"CHAPTER 11. Mediation of Custody and Visitation Issues [3160. - 3188.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/family-code/division-8/part-2/chapter-11"},{"name":"ARTICLE 2. Availability of Mediation [3170. - 3173.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/family-code/division-8/part-2/chapter-11/article-2"}],"history":"Repealed and added by Stats. 1993, Ch. 219, Sec. 116.87. Effective January 1, 1994.","effective":"1994-01-01","html":"

(a) If a stepparent or grandparent has petitioned, or otherwise applied, for a visitation order pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 3100), the court shall set the matter for mediation.

(b) A natural or adoptive parent who is not a party to the proceeding is not required to participate in the mediation proceeding, but failure to participate is a waiver of that parent’s right to object to a settlement reached by the other parties during mediation or to require a hearing on the matter.

","text":"(a) If a stepparent or grandparent has petitioned, or otherwise applied, for a visitation order pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 3100), the court shall set the matter for mediation. (b) A natural or adoptive parent who is not a party to the proceeding is not required to participate in the mediation proceeding, but failure to participate is a waiver of that parent’s right to object to a settlement reached by the other parties during mediation or to require a hearing on the matter.","otherVersions":[],"url":"https://blackletter.si/family-code/availability-of-mediation-3171","source":"California Legislative Information bulk export (pubinfo)"}