Knowing how to identify, assess and manage power in family dispute resolution (FDR) is critical for effective family mediation, parenting coordination, arbitration and collaborative practice.

In particular, knowing how to identify the factors that predict a risk of harm, and how to assess and safely manage family violence, is a fundamental competency for all FDR professionals.

Using a combination of recorded and live lectures, online testing, self-study, small group discussion of case studies, coached role plays with feedback, this course is designed to teach family law professionals how to identify, assess and manage risk and power imbalances in their practices.

Topics Include:

• Understanding all sources of negotiation power and how they affect the parties

• Acknowledging the power of the mediator/arbitrator/parenting coordinator

• Current research findings about Intimate Partner Violence in family law matters

• Current research about the use of different dispute resolution processes for separating couples where IPV is present

• How to identify, assess and manage family violence in the FDR file

• A wide range of screening tools and guides

• Best screening practices in mediation, parenting coordination and arbitration

• When and how to safely refer clients to more appropriate processes

• Safety planning tools and resources

• How to handle suicide risks

• Confidentiality and exceptions

• When and how to report a child in need of protection

• Working with no-contact orders