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Legal Information: Maryland

Custody

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Laws current as of August 27, 2025

How is a mediator chosen?

If a judge orders custody mediation, they will choose the mediator from an approved list. The judge can also assign the case to a mediation organization or the court’s mediation unit to pick the mediator.1

However, if you or the other parent disagrees with the selected mediator, either of you can ask to switch to a different mediator with the proper qualifications. To ask to change mediators, you would need to file a “Request to Substitute Mediator” form within 15 days after getting the mediation referral order.2 

1 Md. Rule § 9-205(d)(1)
2 Md. Rule § 9-205(d)(5)

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