This is a new program, and during 1998 the Center mediated its first two Special Education Mediations. The Center also participates in the highly charged and technically difficult area of divorce mediation. There is a growing trend for divorcing couples to use mediation to craft a separation agreement. Mediation is often faster, more private, less costly, and produces agreements and parenting relationships that endure. Our 12 divorce mediators have all received an intense forty hour specialized training in divorce mediation.
Topics covered include child custody and visitation, support, maintenance, and asset distribution.
Due to the technical nature of divorce mediation, as well as the length and intensity of the work, the Center does charge the client a fee for the service. We have a sliding scale based on the joint gross income of the couple. During 1998, the Center handled 12 divorce cases. The Family Court Mediation Program at Albany County Family Court serves those involved in custody, visitation, and other serious family matters. The goal of the program is to empower parents and family members to resolve their disputes by mutual consent, and in a manner that best serves the needs of the children involved.