Free, open-source practice tools for family mediators and the parties they serve — grounded in published model standards, built for real-world use.
Family mediators navigate some of the most consequential decisions in people's lives — custody arrangements, safety assessments, parenting plans that shape children's futures. Yet most mediators work without standardized practice tools. They rely on memory, experience, and handwritten notes to ensure compliance with evolving ethical standards.
Access to Mediation changes that. It provides a complete, standards-compliant practice toolkit — reference guides, screening checklists, interactive tools, practice templates, and decision-flow diagrams — all mapped to the two authoritative frameworks that govern family mediation in the United States:
- 2025 Model Standards for Family and Divorce Mediation (AFCC/ABA/ACR/APFM — approved May 2025)
- 2005 Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators (ABA/AAA/ACR — approved August–September 2005)
Every resource in this repository is grounded in these standards, with the applicable standard cited, the level of obligation identified (SHALL vs. SHOULD), and practical implementation guidance provided.
Disclaimer: This project provides educational information and practice support templates. It does not constitute legal advice, therapy, or a substitute for professional judgment. Mediators must comply with applicable state law, court rules, and professional licensing requirements.
Try the interactive tools now — no installation required:
Launch Access to Mediation — 20 interactive tools for mediators and parties, 25 practice scenarios, and 20 reference guides — all working directly in your browser.
| Resource | Count | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Reference Guides | 20 | Standards-based guides for every phase of mediation practice |
| Practice Templates | 14 | Customizable Markdown templates (+ 2 Word .docx versions) |
| Practice Scenarios | 25 | "What do I do when..." real-world situation guidance |
| Interactive Tools | 20 | 2 dashboards + 12 mediator tools + 6 party tools |
| Workflow Diagrams | 16 | Mermaid decision-flow diagrams for every major feature |
| Jurisdiction Modules | 5 | State-specific statutes, reporting, and qualifications |
| CLE Presentation | 1 | 10-slide PowerPoint deck ready for conferences |
| Case Management Schema | 1 | Airtable/CSV schema for practice management |
All tools feature localStorage persistence (data survives page refresh), file download/export, form validation, and ARIA accessibility attributes. Print-friendly CSS included for professional output.
| Tool | File | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mediator Dashboard | app/mediator-dashboard.jsx |
Practice hub with quick actions (new case, log session, find clause, run audit), recent cases list, 4 workflow phases (intake, active mediation, agreement/closure, practice management) each linking to relevant tools, templates, references, and party-sharing suggestions |
| Party Welcome | app/party-welcome.jsx |
"What brings you here?" guided onboarding with 4 paths (new to mediation, need a parenting plan, dividing finances, already have an agreement), each with step-by-step checklists linking to the right tools in the right order |
| Tool | File | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Parenting Plan Builder | app/parenting-plan-builder.jsx |
50+ provisions across 8 categories, per-provision notes, copy-to-clipboard and file download, completeness hints for recommended categories |
| Ethics & Compliance Dashboard | app/compliance-dashboard.jsx |
46 audit items across 10 standards areas, progress bar, overall and per-section scoring, separate non-compliant vs. partial gap analysis, downloadable audit report |
| CE Training Tracker | app/ce-tracker.jsx |
Log and edit training entries, 18 topics mapped to 2025 standards, required vs. optional distinction, gap alerts, downloadable training log |
| Agreement Clause Library | app/clause-library.jsx |
40+ searchable pre-written clause templates across 8 categories, copy-to-clipboard, "My Clauses" collection, downloadable clause set for agreement drafting |
| Intake Workflow | app/intake-workflow.jsx |
8-step guided intake process (conflict check through case-ready), substep tracking, template links, progress bar, notes per step, exportable checklist |
| Session Timer & Billing | app/session-timer.jsx |
Start/stop/pause timer, running cost display, session log with case labels, per-case billing summaries, downloadable invoice |
| Agreement Generator | app/agreement-generator.jsx |
Build complete draft agreements from selected clauses with auto-filled party names, customizable variables, preview, and download |
| Risk Assessment | app/risk-assessment.jsx |
Scored DV/safety screening across 6 domains (30+ indicators), weighted risk calculation, process modification recommendations, confidential export |
| Case Analytics | app/case-analytics.jsx |
Practice-wide metrics: agreement rates, case types, referral sources, revenue, DV screening compliance, children served, time-filtered reports |
| Ethical Decision Engine | app/decision-engine.jsx |
Interactive decision trees for 6 common ethical dilemmas — answer questions, get standards-based recommendations with citations, document and export decisions |
| Conflict Check Database | app/conflict-check.jsx |
Track past clients, auto-detect conflicts when opening new cases, document conflict checks with downloadable reports |
| Training Simulator | app/training-simulator.jsx |
Interactive scenario-based training with 12 multiple-choice situations, immediate feedback with standards citations, score tracking |
| Tool | File | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mediation Readiness | app/mediation-prep.jsx |
7-step guided preparation: what to expect, issue identification, priority ranking (must-have/important/flexible), children's needs reflection, personalized document checklist, questions for the mediator, downloadable summary |
| Financial Disclosure | app/financial-disclosure.jsx |
Income (7 sources), expenses (7 categories / 40+ line items), assets (11 categories), debts (9 categories), real-time totals, expense breakdown percentages, net worth, downloadable report |
| Schedule Visualizer | app/schedule-visualizer.jsx |
See custody schedules on a real calendar — 6 preset patterns (alternating weeks, 2-2-3, 5-2, etc.) plus custom builder, time-split percentages, month navigation, downloadable schedule |
| Cost Estimator | app/cost-estimator.jsx |
Estimate mediation cost based on issues, complexity factors, hourly rate, and fee split — shows session count, hour estimate, and cost range per party |
| Compliance Tracker | app/compliance-tracker.jsx |
Track whether agreement terms are being followed post-mediation — categorized items, due dates, recurring obligations, overdue alerts, compliance percentage, downloadable report |
| Child Support Estimator | app/child-support-calc.jsx |
State-specific guideline calculations based on both parents' incomes, number of children, parenting time split, healthcare, and childcare costs |
| Tool | File | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mediation Readiness | app/mediation-prep.jsx |
7-step guided preparation: what to expect, issue identification, priority ranking (must-have/important/flexible), children's needs reflection, personalized document checklist, questions for the mediator, downloadable summary |
| Financial Disclosure | app/financial-disclosure.jsx |
Income (7 sources), expenses (7 categories / 40+ line items), assets (11 categories), debts (9 categories), real-time totals, expense breakdown percentages, net worth, downloadable report |
| Schedule Visualizer | app/schedule-visualizer.jsx |
See custody schedules on a real calendar — 6 preset patterns (alternating weeks, 2-2-3, 5-2, etc.) plus custom builder, time-split percentages, month navigation, downloadable schedule |
| Cost Estimator | app/cost-estimator.jsx |
Estimate mediation cost based on issues, complexity factors, hourly rate, and fee split — shows session count, hour estimate, and cost range per party |
| Compliance Tracker | app/compliance-tracker.jsx |
Track whether agreement terms are being followed post-mediation — categorized items, due dates, recurring obligations, overdue alerts, compliance percentage, downloadable report |
All templates include standards citations in the header, consistent formatting, and customization guidance.
| Template | File | Standards |
|---|---|---|
| Intake Questionnaire | templates/intake-questionnaire.md |
2025-III/IV, 2005-VI |
| Domestic Abuse Screening Checklist | templates/domestic-abuse-screening-checklist.md |
2025-V |
| Agreement to Mediate | templates/agreement-to-mediate.md |
2025-III, 2005-I |
| Conflict-of-Interest Disclosure | templates/conflict-of-interest-disclosure.md |
2025-VII, 2005-II/III |
| Parenting Plan Worksheet | templates/parenting-plan-worksheet.md |
2025-I/V(D)/X |
| Mediation Summary (court-neutral) | templates/mediation-summary.md |
2025-XII, 2005-VI |
| Settlement Agreement | templates/mediation-settlement-agreement.md |
2025-I/II/XII |
| Session Notes | templates/session-notes.md |
2025-I–XII, 2005-VI |
| Safety Plan (DV/High-Conflict) | templates/safety-plan.md |
2025-V |
| Post-Mediation Checklist | templates/post-mediation-checklist.md |
2025-VIII/XII/XIII, 2005-V/VIII |
| Termination Notice | templates/termination-notice.md |
2025-XII, 2005-I |
| Mediator Training Log | templates/mediator-training-log.md |
2025-XI, 2005-IV |
| Technology Consent Form | templates/technology-consent.md |
2025-IX |
| Fee Disclosure Statement | templates/fee-disclosure.md |
2025-XIII, 2005-VIII |
Word format versions: docs/intake-questionnaire.docx, docs/agreement-to-mediate.docx
references/18-agreement-plain-language.md — A plain-language guide that explains common mediation agreement terms (residential schedule, legal vs. physical custody, right of first refusal, QDRO, spousal support types, indemnification, etc.) so parties understand what they're signing.
| Audience | How They Use It |
|---|---|
| Family mediators | Daily practice support — templates, checklists, compliance tracking |
| Parties preparing for mediation | Preparation tools that reduce sessions and save money |
| Mediation training programs | Structured teaching resource with real scenarios and standards mapping |
| Court ADR administrators | Program compliance framework and quality benchmarks |
| Legal aid organizations | Resource for pro bono and volunteer mediators |
| Law students and mediation students | Study reference with standards citations |
| State bar associations | CLE presentation ready to deliver |
- Try the live tools at dougdevitre.github.io/mediation
- Run the Intake Workflow to ensure every new case follows the complete screening process
- Draft agreements faster using the Agreement Clause Library's 40+ pre-written templates
- Track your time with the Session Timer for accurate billing
- Run the ethics self-audit quarterly using the Compliance Dashboard
- Browse
references/for standards-based guidance on any mediation task - Check your jurisdiction in
jurisdictions/for state-specific rules
- Prepare for mediation using the Mediation Readiness tool (saves sessions and money)
- Organize your finances with the Financial Disclosure worksheet
- Visualize schedules with the Schedule Visualizer to see what custody patterns look like
- Estimate costs with the Cost Estimator before your first session
- Understand your agreement by reading the Plain-Language Agreement Guide
- Track compliance after mediation using the Compliance Tracker
Every resource is mapped to the applicable standard with the correct obligation level:
| Standard Area | 2025 Family (AFCC/ABA) | 2005 General (ABA/AAA/ACR) | Reference | Templates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Determination | I | I | 01, 07, 12 | agreement-to-mediate |
| Informed Decision-Making | II | — | 01, 07, 12 | settlement-agreement |
| Education of Parties | III | — | 01, 05 | intake-questionnaire |
| Barriers & Modifications | IV | VI | 01, 10 | intake-questionnaire |
| Domestic Abuse | V | — | 02 | DV-screening, safety-plan |
| Child Maltreatment | VI | — | 03 | — |
| Impartiality & Conflicts | VII | II, III | 04 | conflict-of-interest |
| Confidentiality | VIII | V | 11 | agreement-to-mediate |
| Technology / ODR | IX | IV | 06 | technology-consent |
| Voice of the Child | X | — | 08 | parenting-plan-worksheet |
| Qualifications & Training | XI | IV | 15 | training-log |
| Suspension & Termination | XII | — | 13 | termination-notice, post-mediation |
| Fees | XIII | VIII | 14 | fee-disclosure |
| Advertising | XIV | VII | 16 | — |
| Advancement of Practice | — | IX | 17 | — |
16 Mermaid decision-flow diagrams in references/workflow-diagrams.md, covering every major feature:
| # | Diagram | What It Shows |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Intake & Screening Flow | Referral → individual sessions → screening → agreement to mediate |
| 2 | Domestic Abuse Screening | 5 abuse types → indicators → safety decision tree |
| 3 | Child Maltreatment Response | Concern → training check → reporting → continuation decision |
| 4 | Conflict of Interest Decision | Prior relationships → disclosure → waiver or withdrawal |
| 5 | Suspension & Termination | Safety/impasse/bad faith → suspend vs. terminate decision |
| 6 | Full Mediation Process | Pre-mediation → during → post-mediation (3-phase overview) |
| # | Diagram | What It Shows |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | Party Preparation | 7-step readiness path from notice to prepared |
| 8 | Mediator Case Lifecycle | 4 phases with all 20 tools mapped to each phase |
| 9 | Risk Assessment Scoring | 6 domains → weighted score → 4 risk levels with actions |
| 10 | Agreement Generation | Setup → clause selection → auto-fill → preview/download |
| 11 | Ethical Decision Engine | Dilemma → decision tree → recommendation with obligation level |
| 12 | Conflict Check Process | Name search → match types (direct/related/attorney) → resolution |
| 13 | Child Support Calculation | Income shares vs. percentage model comparison |
| 14 | Training Simulator | Scenario → response → graded feedback → score |
| 15 | Practice Analytics | Data collection → metrics → analysis → reports |
| 16 | Complete Tool Ecosystem | All 20 tools with data flow connections between party and mediator tools |
All diagrams use Mermaid syntax and render in GitHub, VS Code, Obsidian, and any Mermaid-compatible viewer.
State-specific guides mapping model standards to local law:
| State | Statutes | Confidentiality | Mandatory Reporting | DV & Mediation | Mediator Qualifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Fam. Code 3160-3186 | Evid. Code 1115-1128 | Penal Code 11164+ | Fam. Code 3181 | Rules of Court 5.210 |
| Florida | F.S. Ch. 44, 61.183 | F.S. 44.405 | F.S. 39.201 (universal) | F.S. 44.102(2)(c) | Supreme Court certified |
| Missouri | RSMo 452.372 | RSMo 435.014 (UMA) | RSMo 210.115 | RSMo 452.372(3) | Local court rules |
| New York | DRL 253(c) | Program-dependent | SSL 413-420 | FCA Art. 8 | Part 146 (CDRCP) |
| Texas | Fam. Code 153.0071 | CPRC 154.053 | Fam. Code 261.101 | Fam. Code 153.0071(f) | TMCA standards |
Want to add your state? Use the contributor template and submit a pull request.
access-to-mediation/
├── README.md # This file
├── SKILL.md # Claude AI skill routing hub
├── LICENSE # MIT License
├── CONTRIBUTING.md # Contribution guidelines
├── CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md # Contributor Covenant
├── SECURITY.md # Security policy
│
├── references/ # 20 standards-based reference guides
│ ├── 01–17 # One guide per standards area
│ ├── workflow-diagrams.md # 6 Mermaid decision-flow diagrams
│ └── related-guidelines.md # Cross-references to other standards
│
├── templates/ # 14 ready-to-customize Markdown templates
│ ├── intake-questionnaire.md # Pre-mediation screening
│ ├── domestic-abuse-screening-checklist.md
│ ├── agreement-to-mediate.md # Initial consent document
│ ├── safety-plan.md # DV/high-conflict safety measures
│ ├── session-notes.md # Per-session documentation
│ ├── parenting-plan-worksheet.md # Plan development aid
│ ├── mediation-settlement-agreement.md
│ ├── post-mediation-checklist.md # Case closure workflow
│ └── ... # + 6 more templates
│
├── scenarios/ # 20 "What do I do when..." practice scenarios
│
├── app/ # 20 interactive React components + utils + print CSS
│ ├── mediator-dashboard.jsx # Dashboard: mediator practice hub
│ ├── party-welcome.jsx # Dashboard: guided party onboarding
│ ├── parenting-plan-builder.jsx # Mediator: 50+ provisions builder
│ ├── compliance-dashboard.jsx # Mediator: ethics self-audit
│ ├── ce-tracker.jsx # Mediator: training hour tracker
│ ├── clause-library.jsx # Mediator: searchable clause templates
│ ├── intake-workflow.jsx # Mediator: guided intake process
│ ├── session-timer.jsx # Mediator: time tracking & billing
│ ├── agreement-generator.jsx # Mediator: assemble draft agreements
│ ├── risk-assessment.jsx # Mediator: DV/safety risk scoring
│ ├── case-analytics.jsx # Mediator: practice-wide metrics
│ ├── mediation-prep.jsx # Party: 7-step preparation wizard
│ ├── financial-disclosure.jsx # Party: income/expenses/assets/debts
│ ├── schedule-visualizer.jsx # Party: custody calendar visualizer
│ ├── cost-estimator.jsx # Party: mediation cost estimator
│ ├── compliance-tracker.jsx # Party: post-mediation agreement tracker
│ └── print-styles.css # Print-friendly stylesheet
│
├── docs/ # GitHub Pages site + Word/PowerPoint
│ ├── index.html # Full interactive app (live demo)
│ ├── intake-questionnaire.docx # Word template
│ ├── agreement-to-mediate.docx # Word template
│ └── *.pptx # CLE presentation deck
│
├── jurisdictions/ # State-specific modules
│ ├── TEMPLATE.md # Contributor template
│ ├── california/ # California statutes & resources
│ ├── florida/ # Florida statutes & resources
│ ├── missouri/ # Missouri statutes & resources
│ ├── new-york/ # New York statutes & resources
│ └── texas/ # Texas statutes & resources
│
└── scripts/ # Airtable/CSV case management schema
This repo doubles as a Claude AI skill. Install it and Claude will automatically route mediation questions to the appropriate reference file, apply the core principles, and respect the guardrails.
Copy SKILL.md and the references/ and templates/ directories into your Claude skills folder.
We're building toward comprehensive national coverage and deeper tool integration:
- Additional jurisdictions — All 50 states (contributors welcome!)
- Spanish language translation — Templates and reference guides
- PDF export — Generate formatted documents from the interactive tools
- Court-connected program module — Administrative tools for court ADR offices
- Research citations — Link guidance to peer-reviewed mediation research
- Accessibility audit — Full WCAG 2.1 AA compliance certification
- Mobile app — PWA version of the interactive tools
- LMS integration — SCORM-compatible training modules for mediation programs
- Outcome tracking — Case outcome analytics across mediation practices
- Multi-mediator support — Authentication and cloud sync for group practices
See CONTRIBUTING.md for guidelines. Please read our Code of Conduct.
We welcome contributions from mediators, attorneys, researchers, and technologists. Priority areas:
- State jurisdiction modules — Use the template to add your state
- Interactive tools and applications — React components for mediators and parties
- Translations — Especially Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Arabic
- Additional scenarios — Real situations mediators face
- Research citations — Evidence-based practice updates
- Accessibility improvements — Helping all mediators use these tools
- 2025 Model Standards for Family and Divorce Mediation: AFCC | ACR | Mediate.com
- 2005 Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators: ACR | ICDR/AAA | Mediate.com
MIT License. See LICENSE for details.
The model standards referenced herein are published by AFCC, ABA, AAA, and ACR. This project provides educational commentary, implementation guidance, and practice templates — it does not reproduce the full text of the standards.
This repo is part of the Access To open-source civic technology initiative by CoTrackPro — free tools for justice, education, housing, health, safety, and services.
| Project | Description |
|---|---|
| Access to Justice | Legal system navigation and court preparation |
| Access to Safety | Trauma-informed child safety documentation |
| Access to Education | Special needs educational support |
| Access to Health | Public health role-based guidance |
| Access to Housing | Housing access and tenant resources |
| Access to Services | Social services navigation |
| Access to Mediation | Standards-compliant family mediation tools |