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

In this session, I will discuss the importance of intake as the first step in the resolution process. I will share two models for professionals to use, HERE and SORTED, that enable conflict professionals to establish the parameters of the conversation, remain fully present to the conversation, and map the elements of the conflict, from thoughts and feelings, to what has actually occurred. In this engaging presentation, participants will have the opportunity to practice the models and leave with model handouts that they can put into practice immediately.

Participants are invited to a conversation with 3 community mediators discussing the ways that they normalize collaborative decision making in their professional, personal and public lives.
Each presenter will bring two questions for all panelists to respond to, creating a collaborative dialogue about the realities of mediation practice. The discussion will explore psychological safety, authenticity, neutrality, seeking mediation as mediators, and processing the emotions that arise from our work. Through stories, reflection, and audience engagement, panelists and participants will examine how mediators support one another and how mediation values can inform relationships and community both at and away from the mediation table.

Learning Objectives:

• Explore how authenticity and neutrality can coexist in both mediation practice and everyday relationships.
• Reflect on the ways mediators seek support, including the use of mediation and other collaborative processes in their own conflicts.
• Identify approaches for processing the emotions that arise from mediation work while maintaining professional and ethical boundaries.
• Consider how mediation values can shape interactions and relationships both at and away from the mediation table.