The Supreme Court of Nevada is looking for people to join its Juvenile Dependency Mediation Program, which trains mediators to guide conversations in cases involving children’s safety.
Juvenile dependency cases address situations where children may be at risk, focusing on protection and support rather than punishment.
These cases occur during some of the most challenging moments a family can face, and the process is designed to provide guidance and support while ensuring children’s safety.
Mediation offers an alternative to traditional court proceedings by encouraging collaborative discussions, where compassion, clear communication, and thoughtful problem-solving are essential to helping families navigate difficult decisions and work toward positive outcomes for children.
Founded in 2017, the program aims to engage families more effectively and shorten the time needed to reach permanency or decide parental rights. The program offers a different approach to traditional court proceedings, using mediation to foster cooperative, child-centered discussions in protection cases.
Mediators do not make legal decisions or provide advice, but help facilitate child-focused discussions.
Mediators work as paid contractors through the Supreme Court, earning a base of $700 per mediation. The program offers flexible schedules, and people do not need prior certification. A 40-hour training is provided, and all who complete it receive certification. Experience in mediation, alternative dispute resolution, child welfare, or dependency court is strongly preferred.
“We’re looking for individuals who can navigate high-emotion situations with empathy and a commitment to helping families,” said Jae Barrick, JDMP Administrator. “This work gives parents a real voice in the dependency court process while keeping children at the center of every conversation.”
While the program is recruiting across Nevada, mediators are especially needed in Washoe County and rural areas such as Nye and Esmeralda Counties. Mediations may take place virtually or in person, depending on location.
Applicants should send a resume, cover letter, and brief statement explaining why they are a good fit to JDMP Administrator Jae Barrick at jdmpnevada@gmail.com.
Selected applicants will attend a five-day training in Carson City, with final selections made after the course.
