In the context of divorce, if parents agree on the child's custody and accommodation arrangements, the agreement can be endorsed by the Family Court (amicable agreement).
When the parents do not agree and the case is brought before the Family court, the parties will be informed by the magistrates of the possibility of resolving their dispute through Conciliation, mediation or any other amicable settlement of conflicts.
When the family court is called upon to issue a ruling, it will decide on a series of issues with due regard to the best interests of the child. In Belgium, in case of dispute custody will be shared for children under 10 years of age. Any juvenile, capable of discernment, has the right to be heard by a judge concerning parental authority, his accommodation and the right to personal relations. But it is not an obligation. In the event of a hearing, the judge draws up a written account of which the parents are aware. The juvenile shall be informed and the report shall be read to him.