2026 Maryland Mediators Convention

Janet Bayer and Kandi Morris will present program manager and mediator perspectives on mediation in CINA (Child In Need of Assistance) and TPR (Termination of Parental Rights) cases in the Maryland juvenile court. What is happening in the Maryland courts regarding mediation in juvenile court? What mediator experience, expertise, and temperament could provide a solid preparation for mediating these types of cases? How is CINA/TPR mediation any different than child access mediation? What is CINA and TPR anyway? This session will provide information and propose potential answers to these questions.

Learning Objectives:

• To inform mediators with a quick overview of CINA and TPR proceedings and how the Maryland courts utilize mediation for these cases
• To challenge mediators to think about how mediating CINA/TPR cases may differ or be similar to child access mediation
• To stimulate mediator thinking about whether CINA/TPR mediation may be a good fit for them