Mediation

Mediation services are ordered to resolve custody or parenting issues through facilitated discussion between parents and a mediator.

Program Descriptions:


Domestic Relations Mediation
Mediation services are available to parties free of charge by court Specialists for parents involved in court actions where visitation and/or custody issues are in dispute.

Subsidized Mediation Program (Local Rule 68.12)
Mediation services are available to low-income parties in a domestic relations matter where one or more of the following issues are in dispute:  custody, child support, parenting time, property issues, or attorney fees.  A Court approved mediator for this subsidized program will provide two-hours of mediation services free of charge.  This service is only available through Court order.  This mediation service is free to parties but the Court may order parties to pay a $25 fee to the Office of the Court Administrator.  

Child Dependency Mediation
Mediation services are available to parties in a child abuse/neglect or a termination of parental rights matter in an effort to expedite permanency for children.  An FCRS Specialist facilitates the mediation; parents, guardians, adoptive resources, attorneys, and allied professionals are typically present to explore ideas about achieving permanency for the children. 

Domestic Relations Mediation - In House
currently under construction

Access to Service:
 

Domestic Relations Mediation - In House
Mediation is a free service offered by Family Court Resource Services.  Parties may access services by referral or court order.  Parties and/or attorneys must contact FCRS at (816) 881-1814 to schedule.

Subsidized Mediation Program (Local Rule 68.12)
A judge or commissioner may order mediation services under this program.  The Court order is sent to Family Court Resource Services for coordination with a court approved mediator.  Parties must complete and file an Income and Expense Statement and a Statement of Assets and Debts within 7 days after receipt of court order.  Parties may also complete a Modification Statement of Assets and Debts (Form 1402E) when necessary.  Parties must file these documents with the Department of Civil Records and must provide copies of these documents to Family Court Resource Services before the mediation can be coordinated with the mediator.    Parties may contact Resource Services for assistance with the above forms or notary services if needed.  

Child Dependency Mediation
Cases can be received in various ways.  A Judge can order mediation or cases can be referred by attorneys, GALs, or the Children's Division.  If a Judge orders mediation, the court order is sent to Family Court Resource Services and a staff Specialist is assigned to mediate.  The court order must be accompanied by the Mediation Referral Form identifying persons invited to participate in the mediation.  For non-court ordered mediations, an attorney for the Children's Division worker may refer cases by completing the Mediation Referral Form and sending to FCRS.  Referral forms can be sent by mail to 103 N. Main, Suite 200, Independence, MO 64050, by fax to (816) 881-1819 or by email to Lori.Wilson@courts.mo.gov.