Mediation is voluntary in the state of New Hampshire.

If the court believes there is likelihood for rehabilitation of the marriage relationship, before or during a hearing, but before a final decree, it shall refer the parties to an appropriate counseling agency within its jurisdiction. The referral may be made by the court if it is requested by the parties. If the court believes there is a reasonable possibility of reconciliation, the court shall continue the divorce proceedings and require that both parties submit to marriage counseling. [New Hampshire Statutes; Chapters: 458:6, 458:7B and 458:15-a].

New Hampshire requires divorcing parents to complete the Child Impact Program before a divorce decree can be issued. The Child Impact Program is a four-hour seminar to help parents understand the impact of divorce and custody issues on children. The seminar helps increase the children’s self esteem and resolve conflict at home as well as effectively existing as co-parents.