Most of us are aware that violence and domestic violence are often part of conflictual situations, especially in divorce situations.  We also know that this, too often, becomes the "family secret". As mediators, we need to be aware of the warning signals, and especially aware of the importance of the safety of the victim.  See "Schedules" for dates of Advanced Training in Issues in Mediation Relating to Domestic Violence.    Most Court Mediation Programs in Georgia now must have Mediators on their roster who have taken the Advanced Domestic Violence Issues in Mediation Training.

This two day intensive training consists of the following:

Day one:

• Overview of domestic violence
• dynamics
• impact on families, children
• impact on the mediation process
• information from perspective of advocates who work with victims and batterers
• legal information
• screening for domestic violence
• ethical considerations
• safety planning
• appropriate referrals
• special considerations in agreement writing

Day two:

• entire day of role-plays
• mediating when domestic violence is known
• mediating when domestic violence is not known
• terminating inappropriate cases
• dealing with parenting issues and unfair agreements

This  two-day intensive training  is  for  trained  divorce  mediators.   Other professionals may sign up for day one only.  Day two involves participatory role-plays where prior Divorce Mediation training is necessary.