Enacted May 1996, Section 6-6-20, also referred to as Alabama's Mandatory Mediation Act, relates to mediation prior to trial in civil practice cases. Mediation is mandatory when all parties agree to mediate, when party motions for mediation and agrees to pay the costs, and when a trial court orders mediation.
The court will not order mediation in child custody cases where domestic violence is present or an order of protection is in effect. In cases of domestic violence, mediations will occur if requested by the alleged victim and if the service is provided by a certified mediator trained in family violence. The victim is allowed to have a supporting person in attendance at the mediation session.