Custody mediation is a process in which a neutral third party is enlisted to help parents negotiate fair and reasonable child custody and visitation arrangements. A judge can appoint a mediator to address custody before a case is permitted to go to trial. This step is designed to reduce the court's caseload. Mediation is not arbitration and the mediator cannot dictate any terms to the couple. This is merely a preliminary attempt to reach a successful settlement. Cases that involve mediation rarely continue to a full blown trial. Couples can choose to hire a private mediator to help them address asset distribution in addition to custody and child support issues. Such services are billed by the hour. This gives both parents an incentive to reach a fair settlement as quickly as possible.