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Key elements of mediation: Impartial skilled negotiator. Voluntary (on the part of the clients) Confidential. Informal and flexible. Decisions based on consensus. Focused on the future to achieve a 'gain-gain' result and resolve conflict.

In South Dakota, the standard parenting guidelines will set out the custody arrangement to be followed by the parents. You can object to the standard guidelines and the judge will order a hearing within thirty days.

On average, parties to mediation can expect fees anywhere from $300.00 to $1,000.00, divided 50/50 between the parties. Because the parties divide the fees equally between them, mediation is generally less expensive than going to court.

South Dakota child custody laws don't prescribe a certain age when a child's preference may be considered. Judges have broad discretion when deciding how much weight to give the child's preference. In some South Dakota custody cases, judges have considered the well-reasoned preferences of children as young as 10.

A support order may be modified without showing any change in circumstances if the order was entered and in effect prior to July 1, 2022. An order entered and in effect after July 1, 2022 may be modified only: If it was entered three years or more from the date the petition is filed; or.

By choosing a mediator that is registered with the CMC it will provide you with peace of mind that your mediator abides by a Code of Conduct, has been trained to acceptable industry standards, has suitable insurance, carries out continuous training and development and offers access to a complaints process if needed.