The bill amends sections 3109.052 and 3109.055 of the Revised Code to establish the Ohio Custody Mediation and Orientation Act. It mandates that in cases involving children where parents cannot agree on the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities or parenting time, the court shall order mediation, unless it determines that mediation is inappropriate. The court must consider the best interests of the children and any history of domestic violence or abuse when deciding on mediation. Additionally, the bill introduces requirements for mediation procedures, including the qualifications for mediators and the necessity for parents to complete a court-approved orientation session regarding the mediation process and their rights.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if conciliation is required in cases involving unmarried parents, the court shall order conciliation with a magistrate to resolve disputes over parental rights and responsibilities. Similar to mediation, the court may waive conciliation requirements if deemed inappropriate, and it must consider the best interests of the children and any relevant history of abuse. The bill also includes provisions for waiving or reducing costs associated with mediation and conciliation for indigent parents. Overall, the act aims to facilitate better resolution processes for custody disputes while ensuring the safety and well-being of children involved.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3109.052, 3109.055