LR5-504. Domestic relations; mediation.

The fifth judicial district court shall provide a domestic relations mediation program in Chaves, Eddy and Lea counties to assist the court, parents and other interested parties in determining the best interest of children involved in domestic relations cases.

A. To effect the program. A thirty dollar ($30.00) surcharge will be collected in Chaves, Eddy and Lea counties for all new and reopened domestic relations cases except in actions to enforce previously ordered child support.

B. Payments from mediation fund.

(1) Mediation fees. Mediators shall be paid fifty dollars ($50.00) per hour, not to exceed three hundred fifty dollars ($350.00) plus gross receipts tax. (Seven hours) The court may order additional mediation not to exceed five hours. The court may order additional mediation or counseling upon showing of good cause.

(2) Other. Money in the fund may be used to offset the cost of operating the domestic relations mediation program on written order of the chief judge.

C. Contact with mediator. When a case has been ordered to mediation by the court, neither attorney shall individually contact the mediator regarding the case or attempt to influence the outcome of the mediation.

[Approved, effective April 1, 1999.]