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

When communication has broken down between parents how could it be helpful for them to use AI to help them communicate more effectively? What are the positives and what are the pitfalls?

Explore how AI could be used as a communication and problem-solving tool in custody mediation. Participants will review examples, then work in small groups with different custody scenarios to experiment with AI-generated guidance and solutions.
Groups will discuss their experiences and reconvene to share feedback on AI’s potential benefits, limitations, and pitfalls in mediation. This hands-on session provides an opportunity to experience AI firsthand and consider how it might—and might not—support effective mediation.