Principal Judge Advocates Mediation for Family Disputes

Principal Judge Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo has urged judicial officers, lawyers, and the public to prioritize mediation as the initial approach for settling family disputes. She described mediation as a more efficient, cost-effective, and compassionate alternative to lengthy court battles.

During the launch of the Family Division Mediation Fortnight, Justice Abodo explained that beyond resolving legal disagreements, mediation plays a crucial role in mending relationships and cultivating enduring peace within families. She stated that while litigation focuses on legal rights, mediation offers healing, closure, and reconciliation, which are vital for emotionally charged family matters that can otherwise span generations.

Justice Abodo commended Justice John Eudes Keitirima, Head of the High Court Family Division, for his dedication to promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). She encouraged judicial staff to actively inform litigants about the advantages of mediation from the outset, and lawyers to guide their clients toward this process before embarking on potentially protracted and expensive court proceedings.

Justice Andrew Khaukha, Executive Director of the Judicial Training Institute, acknowledged the Family Division’s consistent high performance in mediation, even with limited resources. He recognized that delayed payments to mediators pose a challenge but assured that reforms are in progress to enhance ADR mechanisms within the Judiciary.

The Family Division Mediation Fortnight is a key initiative by the Judiciary to promote mediation as an effective tool for dispute resolution, aiming to reduce case backlogs and improve access to justice for all.

Source: Nile Post