SB348 Summary

• Amends Alabama Code Section 6-6-20 to modify requirements for mediators in cases involving domestic or family violence, requiring mediators to either be registered with the Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution or have at least 16 years of experience as a state legislator.

• Requires mediators to receive specialized training in domestic and family violence protection before conducting mediation in cases where domestic violence evidence exists.

• Permits domestic violence victims to have a supporting person of their choice in attendance at mediation, including an attorney or advocate.

• Maintains prohibitions against court-ordered mediation in Protection from Abuse Act proceedings, child custody/visitation cases with active protection orders or found domestic violence, and cases involving child support or protective services where the Department of Human Resources is a party.

• Becomes effective immediately upon passage and gubernatorial approval.