L. R. Prac. Sup. Ct. 14

As amended through August 22, 2024
Rule 14 - Conciliation Court and Mediation Services
A.Establishment. A conciliation court is hereby established as provided in A.R.S. § 25-381.01. The domestic relations judge shall serve as judge of the conciliation court.
B.Actions Subject to Consideration. When it appears from a pleading or other paper filed with the court that child custody or visitation is an issue in a paternity, dissolution, legal separation, or annulment action, the case may be transferred to the conciliation court.
C.Mandatory Attendance. Unless excused by the court for good cause shown, when the jurisdiction of the conciliation court is invoked the parties shall attend at least one hearing or conference as set by the conciliation court judge and may be ordered to attend other hearings or conferences.
D.Pending Motions and Hearings. Whenever a petition invoking the jurisdiction of the conciliation court is filed, pending hearings or orders to show cause shall not be vacated, but shall be assigned to the conciliation court judge who may proceed to hear the matters and enter appropriate orders during the pendency of conciliation efforts.
E.Procedure. Whenever a petition invoking the jurisdiction of the conciliation court is filed, the clerk shall enter an order in the case file recording the fact and date of the filing of the petition.
F.Mediation. In actions concerning custody of or access to a child (including actions for dissolution, separation, annulment, paternity, private dependency, or guardianship), the case may be assigned by the conciliation court for mediation of those issues.
G.Agreements. Agreements reached between the parties as a result of counseling or mediation shall be in writing and approved by the parties; no such agreement is binding until approved by the court by separate order or minute entry.

L. R. Prac. Sup. Ct. 14

Added June 17, 1999, effective 7/1/1999.