from a reader:

I have a question, is a adr required for all custody orders when though one parent has sole custody?

Kris responds:

(in accordance with Susan Cefai, JD, Family Mediator, the following is offered in response to your question).

As of September 1, 2005, all final orders in suits affecting the parent-child relationship must incorporate a “final parenting plan” (Tx. Family Code, Section 153.603). One of the requirements of the plan is that it include a provision for “a dispute resolution process or other voluntary dispute resolution procedures” before either parent can go back to court. There is no exception for cases where a sole custody arrangement is in place, the only exceptions are for cases where family violence was present, or it is shown that the dispute resolution procedure would not be in the best interest of the child (Tx. Family Code, Section 153.0071)