N.Y. Fam. Ct. Act § 1018

§ 1018. Conferencing and mediation. In any proceeding initiated\npursuant to this article, the court may, at its discretion, authorize\nthe use of conferencing or mediation at any point in the proceedings to\nfurther a plan for the child that fosters the child's health, safety,\nand well-being. Such conferencing or mediation may involve interested\nrelatives or other adults who are significant in the life of the child.\n