HB 618 Summary

• Creates exemption from mediation in contested paternity proceedings when a party alleges domestic abuse and does not wish to participate.

• Requires mediators to screen for domestic abuse and prohibits mediation when domestic abuse allegations exist unless the alleged victim authorizes it, the mediator is trained in domestic abuse, and the victim may have a support person present.

• Prohibits courts from requiring mediation in paternity proceedings if a temporary restraining order or protective order is in effect between parties and the alleging party does not consent.

• Allows courts to order mediation in paternity cases with domestic abuse allegations (without protective order in effect) only if victim authorizes it, mediator is trained in domestic abuse, and victim may have support person present.

• Replaces terminology of "family violence" with "domestic abuse" in divorce mediation provisions (§580-41.5) and defines "domestic abuse" by reference to §586-1.