A pilot project aimed at helping troubled families resolve disputes more quickly is underway in a number of family courts.

The trial gives those involved in custody, access and guardianship battles the option of using specially selected mediators.

Currently, families who have not been able to reach agreement during counselling can be referred to a mediation conference in front of a judge, but it can be several months before a judge is available.

Family court jurisdiction manager, Denise Udy says the mediation service should help people to address underlying issues.

The pilot is being carried out in Porirua, North Shore and Christchurch and will start in Hamilton shortly.