The rule authorizes the referral of all issues of child custody, visitation and removal to mediation except when one of the parties is unable to participate competently. It outlines the qualifications and duties of mediators, including advising the parties to obtain independent legal counsel and terminating mediation if the best interests of the children are not being considered. It also describes the referral process and provides for confidentiality. The rule authorizes the creation of an advisory committee to advise the Chief Judge as to rules of procedure, standards for mediators, and evaluation of the program.
17th Judicial Circuit of Illinois Local Rule 14.08 - Non-Judicial Child Custody and Visitation Mediation
17th Judicial Circuit Court of Illinois. July 2001; amended January 2, 2007http://www.illinois17th.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=378&Itemid=84#0211