Child custody court cases tend to be lengthy and very combative. This is one reason many courts require mediation efforts before parents can go to trial over custody issues. Family law courts in each state do have the ability to modify a custody agreement that is submitted voluntarily by the parents if a judge feels it does not represent the best interests of the child. However, courts very rarely step in to handle custody issues when parents are working things out between themselves. Some parents choose to represent themselves in trials regarding child custody. Courts frown upon this practice since such proceedings can take longer simply because the parents do not know or understand proper courtroom procedures. In addition, the outcome is likely to be less than optimal. A parent who cannot afford an attorney should at least find out if there are any organizations in the area that offer free or low cost legal consultations for low-income parents.