Chenango County Courts

Family Court Dispute Resolution

What Is Family Court Mediation? | How Much Does it Cost? | How Does Mediation Work? | Will I Have to Go to Court? | How Does the Process Begin? | Who Are the Mediators?

Chenango County Dispute Resolution Services
Family Court Program
Eaton Center
Norwich, NY 13815
Phone: 607-334-1984


Custody and Visitation Mediation

What Is Family Court Mediation?
Family Court Mediation is a process where parents meet with two specially trained mediators to discuss parenting issues and seek a resolution that is acceptable to both and in the best interest of their child(ren).


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How Much Does it Cost?
There are no fees for mediations. However, donations are always accepted. The service is provided through the New York State Unified Court System in conjunction with Chenango County Family Court.


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How Does Mediation Work?
Parents sit down together with the mediators to identify the issues and any areas of conflicts, determine goals and explore possible solutions. The mediators work with parents to ensure equal participation, they do not provide counsel or legal advice.


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Will I Have to Go to Court?
Mediation may eliminate the need to appear in Family Court. If parents reach an agreement it may be submitted to Family Court for review and approval. When approved, it becomes a court order.


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How Does the Process Begin?
Upon receiving a referral from Family Court, letters are sent to both parents to explain the process. If the parents wish to participate in the process and their case is appropriate for mediation, a mediation session is scheduled. You may also contact us directly at anytime.


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Who Are the Mediators?
Mediators have completed an extensive training and apprenticeship program as required by the New York State Unified Court and volunteer their services to the Center. Mediators are objective, nonjudgmental and impartial. Mediators help people listen to each other, discuss issues and encourage the creation of a mutual agreement for parenting.