The NYS Unified Court System is committed to promoting the appropriate use of mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to resolve disputes and conflicts peacefully.
About ADR
Learn about Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
and how it is used in the courts.
Involved in a Conflict?
Learn about your ADR options if you are involved in a conflict or dispute, even if your case isn't in court.
Community Dispute Resolution Centers
Learn about the free and low-cost services provided by Community Dispute Resolution Centers.
Mediator Directory
Find mediators approved to mediate for a trial court in New York State.
News and Updates
December 2022: The Statewide ADR Office launched an online application for trainers to become approved under Part 146 of the Rules of the Chief Administrative Judge. The new online application streamlines the process of approving trainings under Part 146.
October 2022: Pursuant to Par. 2 of Administrative Order 124/22, the Statewide ADR Office, in consultation with Office of Justice Initiatives and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, published Anti-Bias Training Guidelines to promote clear standards for quality trainings.
May 2022: In furtherance of The Court's goal of addressing bias in the court system, Judge Marks signed Administrative Order 124/22, effective January 1, 2023, requiring all ADR neutrals who serve the court system (mediators and neutral evaluators serving on court rosters under Part 146, arbitrators and special masters who serve in court-sponsored programs, and neutrals who provide services as a part of the Community Dispute Resolution Center Program) to complete at least two (2) hours of anti-bias training every two years.
May 2022: Under Administrative Order 119a/22, effective January 1, 2023, all Family Court and Matrimonial Part mediators will be required to take 4 hours of training on Screening for Intimate partner Violence (IPV) and 2 hours of continuing education on IPV every 2 years. This Order extends and codifies current statewide practice, which seeks to ensure the safety of litigants who may be victims of IPV.