Attorneys should be aware that their clients would be required to comply with the requirements of the legislation, which will include:
Parents will be required to file with the court certificates of completion of the education program and evidence of a good faith attempt to mediate any dispute over the parenting plan.
The requirements of the legislation will apply to all cases involving the custody or
support of minor children except Title IV-D cases. Mediation will not be required prior to
a court hearing in cases where it is found that a parent has engaged in physical or sexual abuse or a pattern of emotional abuse of a child or a person living with the child.
The cost of education and mediation will be borne by the parties and will be based on ability to pay. The parties will be free to use any mediator, but if they are unable to
agree, the courts will only appoint certified Rule 31 mediators.
The Parenting Coordinator for Hamilton County is Data Vess, (423) 209-6658 and is located in room 402 M.L. King Bldg., 317 Oak Street, Chattanooga, TN. E-mail Address is DataV@exch.hamiltontn.gov
Effective December 1, 1997, the Circuit and Chancery Courts of Hamilton County have implemented a pilot program established and directed by the legislature to focus attention of divorcing parents on the effect of divorce on their minor children. The program is authorized by Chapter 557 of the Public Acts of 1997 and can be found at T.C.A. Sec 36-6-401, et seq.
Current information about class schedules and specific details are available at the Hamilton County site.