An Appeal for Autonomy, Access, and Accountability in Family Court Reform Efforts. (October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Davis, Gabrielle; Ver Steegh, Nancy; Frederick, Loretta
• Is Part Of: Family court review. Volume 52:Number 4(2014:Oct.)
• Page Start: 655
• Page End: 661
• Publication Date: 2014-10
• Subjects: Domestic relations courts -- United States -- Periodicals; 346.7301505
• DOI: 10.1111/fcre.12117
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1531-2445

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>An array of dispute resolution alternatives should be available to families who elect to use them. We suggest a system where parties maintain unhindered access to traditional courts but are able to knowingly and voluntarily opt into dispute resolution processes that are delivered in a fair, affordable, and accountable manner. We support provision of community‐based and private‐sector services to the extent that court funding and access is not diminished.<list id="fcre12117-list-0001" list-type="bullet"><title>Key Points for the Family Court Community</title><list-item><p>Choices about participation in dispute resolution processes should be party driven.</p></list-item><list-item><p>Parties should receive complete and accurate information about available dispute resolution processes and have access to confidential legal advice.</p></list-item><list-item><p>Dispute resolution processes should be fair, affordable, competently provided, and accountable.</p></list-item><list-item><p>Parties should have open access to traditional court processes.</p></list-item></list></p> </abstract>