A family court requires all parents to attempt mediation before litigating custody disputes. Most cases settle, saving court time and preserving relationships. A few involve domestic violence where victims feel pressured to negotiate with their abusers before the court will hear them. A small claims court makes mediation mandatory for all cases under $10,000. Parties reach agreements faster and cheaper than trials would allow, but some vulnerable parties accept unfair settlements because they do not understand their legal rights and see no path to adjudication.