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Panelist
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Zena Zumeta
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Mediation Training & Consultation Institute
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Welcome and Introductory Remarks
August 20, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. - 9:10 a.m. ET
Topic
Opening remarks delivered by Zena Zumeta
Working with Attorneys in Family Mediation
August 20, 2026 | 9:10 a.m. - 10:20 a.m. ET
Topic
As a facilitative mediator, Zena’s goal is to work collaboratively with attorneys to support their clients in negotiating and reaching settlement. This workshop explores the philosophy, techniques, and approaches that shape the mediator’s work with attorneys as participants in the family mediation process. Participants will view video excerpts from a simulated family mediation, including pre-mediation sessions with attorneys, joint sessions involving attorneys, and caucuses with attorneys and their clients. The workshop will highlight the dynamics of attorney involvement in mediation and practical considerations for mediators working with counsel throughout the process.
Panelist
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Zena Zumeta
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Mediation Training & Consultation Institute
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Presenting the Newly Revised Model Standards for Family and Divorce Mediation
August 20, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. - 11:40 a.m. ET
Topic
Panelist
The Model Standards for Family and Divorce Mediation were revised in 2025 by a taskforce convened by the Association for Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) and the American Bar Association. For example, the Domestic Violence section was greatly enhanced and a section on technology and mediation was added. Marya Kolman was a member of the Task Force representing the Association for Conflict Resolution. This interactive presentation will begin with a review of the revisions to the Model Standards and then give participants an opportunity to apply them to at least one scenario.
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Marya Kolman
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Manager of the Dispute Resolution Section of the Supreme Court of Ohio
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Beyond the Mediation Room: Using Mediation Skills to Manage High-Conflict Parents in Supervised Parenting Time Cases
August 20, 2026 | 11:50 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. ET
Topic
High-conflict custody disputes disproportionately impact families facing economic barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and limited access to dispute resolution resources. This presentation will address how mediators and neutral professionals can recognize implicit bias, ensure culturally competent communication, and support equitable treatment of families from diverse backgrounds within supervised parenting environments.
Panelist
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Shawndrica Simmons
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Attorney and Mediator
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