There is no mandatory mediation in Washington, but the state encourages spouses to attend mediation, which involves a neutral third party who helps the spouses resolve their differences regarding child custody, spousal support or other issues so that they can reach agreement.

In Washington, divorcing spouses, at the request of either one spouse or at the court’s initiative, may be referred to a counseling service chosen by the parties. The counseling service makes a report within 60 days. Contested issues related to custody and visitation are referred to mediation. [Revised Code of Washington Annotated; Title 26, Chapters 26.09.015, 26.09.030 and 26.09.181].

Mandatory. Both parties must attend a parenting seminar. The court may waive the seminar requirement for one or both parents if good cause is shown.