Rule VII Media Relations and Public Affairs.

This rule explains how the state promotes mediation and other ways to resolve disputes outside of court. It does not set out steps you need to follow if you are part of a mediation case. Instead, it describes the outreach work done by the Center for Dispute Resolution and related state offices.

Under this rule, the Center works with the Alabama State Bar and the Administrative Office of Courts to spread the word about mediation. This includes radio and TV ads, brochures, news coverage, and articles in newspapers and bar newsletters. The goal is to help more people learn that mediation is an option before they go through a full court trial.

The Center also runs seminars and training sessions for schools, community groups, businesses, and professional organizations. This helps educate the public on how mediation works and why it might be a good choice for settling a dispute. Finally, the Center's Director shares information about Alabama's mediation programs in national publications, which helps other states learn from Alabama's approach.

If you are involved in a court case, this rule does not change your rights or how your case is handled. It simply shows the state's effort to make mediation better known as a tool for resolving conflicts.