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E. Mediation

5.6 As discussed earlier in the report, mediation is the widely preferred method for resolving custody and other parenting disputes,131 and many jurisdictions provide guidelines as to when and how mediation should be employed in such disputes. In cases involving abuse or other mistreatment, for instance, mediation is not seen as appropriate.132 Some jurisdictions provide free mediation (at least to a point) for divorcing couples, which can further encourage collaborative resolution (as an alternative to costly litigation).133

131 See supra Ch. IV.

132 Id.

133 Id.