When a woman suffering battery from her spouse files for a divorce or child custody, it cannot be established with certainty that mediation will be effective in such cases or not. In U.S, domestic violence is very common in families.

While mediation is sought in most divorce cases, it is up to the mediators to identify a possible hidden domestic violence issue.

Couples usually underplay or deny any incidence of domestic violence. However, through interactions with them and by keeping an eye for subtle indications a mediator can establish a pattern and recognise it. Display of dominance and control can be a sign that the couple is hiding something.

Mediation programs must be created with specific approaches. Edification and training of mediators; screening of divorce cases to mediators that can be good for mediation; and use of special procedures and techniques through the whole mediation process are important amongst them. Ensuring safety of parties and the mediator is crucial.

Mediators need to see the whole episode of domestic violence between couples dispassionately. They can bring out a change in attitudes of couples through mediation sessions. Also, they can present a solution to the domestic violence issue by mediating between couples.