Free PUB-26 Child Custody & Visitation Mediation (6-08).indd for WEB.indd - Alaska

Child Custody And Visitation Mediation Program
Helping Parents Resolve Custody And Visitation Disputes

The Alaska Court System is pleased to offer mediation services for parents who have a divorce, dissolution, child custody, or visitation case pending in court, or who are seeking to modify an existing court order or decree. Mediation is a voluntary, cooperative, confidential problem-solving process that is often useful for resolving custody or visitation problems and creating co-parenting agreements. In this program, experienced mediators assist parents to work out agreements acceptable to both parents. Parents maintain control of the decisions throughout the process. The parenting plan that is developed usually becomes part of the divorce, dissolution, or custody agreement. Mediation is confidential. Neither the mediator nor the parents may disclose in court what is discussed in mediation.* Parents with a combined net annual income of $100,000 or less are eligible for this subsidized program. There is no cost for eligible parents.

* Exceptions may exist for unreported allegations of child abuse or neglect and threats of harm to another party.
Published by the Alaska Court System
PUB-26 (6/08)(peach)

1

When domestic violence is an issue, the safety of the victim is essential. This program is not available if a domestic violence restraining order is in effect. If you are concerned about violence, or abusive or controlling behavior, you can request a private session with the mediator. The mediators are trained in domestic violence issues and will help you decide whether you can participate safely and effectively. Please consider mediation as an option. In many cases mediation holds the potential for a win/win solution for parents and for children. If you wish to participate in this program, you or your attorney can obtain a form to request mediation services (Form No. DR-405) from your court, or on the court website:

Child custody and visitation mediation programs are available in the following courts: Anchorage Bethel Dillingham Fairbanks Homer Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Palmer Sitka

http://www.state.ak.us/courts/mediation.htm#Programs

If you are not eligible for this program, but still wish to consider mediation, you will find listings for mediators in the Yellow Pages under "Mediation."

2

For more information about this publication, please call the Alaska Court System Administrative Office at (907) 264-8240 820 West Fourth Avenue Anchorage, Alaska 99501