New York Consolidated Laws, Family Court Act - FCT § 1018. Conferencing and mediation

In any proceeding initiated pursuant to this article, the court may, at its discretion, authorize the use of conferencing or mediation at any point in the proceedings to further a plan for the child that fosters the child's health, safety, and well-being.  Such conferencing or mediation may involve interested relatives or other adults who are significant in the life of the child.