If the parties do not have an understanding and mutually agreeable resolution, they may begin the Discovery phase of the case by investigating assets, liabilities, and other issues that may be relevant to issues of parenting time or financial support. Discovery often provides the basis for negotiating a resolution of the case.
While discovery is ongoing, the parties may have to appear for an initial Court date. If the case is not resolved, the initial Court date is typically in place so the Court can set a schedule and deadlines for litigating and resolving the case. Typically the Judge will Order the parties to attend mediation to attempt to work out any differences and reach a mutually agreeable resolution. If a resolution cannot be reached in Mediation, the parties will have a trial.