January 14, 2026
Few situations in the court system are as urgent or emotionally charged as cases involving a child’s safety. The Supreme Court of Nevada is seeking applicants to join a training program to become a mediator for the Juvenile Dependency Mediation Program (JDMP), where skilled facilitation can transform difficult conversations into progress for children and families.
Juvenile dependency cases are court proceedings that focus on protecting children when there are serious concerns about their safety or well-being. These cases arise during some of the most difficult moments a family can face, and while they involve court oversight, they are not meant to punish anyone. Instead, juvenile dependency exists to ensure children are safe while families receive support and guidance during a critical time, making compassion, communication, and thoughtful problem-solving essential to the process.
Founded in 2017, JDMP improves the processing of dependency cases by better engaging families and decreasing the time to permanency and termination of parental rights. The program provides an alternative to the traditional courtroom setting by using mediation to support collaborative, child-focused conversations in child protection cases. Mediators are dependency-informed professionals who facilitate these conversations. Mediators do not make decisions on cases or provide legal advice.
JDMP mediation offers flexible, meaningful work that fits alongside full-time employment or retirement. Mediators are paid contractors through the Supreme Court of Nevada with a base compensation of $700 per mediation. Applicants do not need to be certified mediators to apply. JDMP provides a 40-hour mediation training as part of the onboarding process, and everyone who completes the training receives mediator certification. Prior 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 JDMP is recruiting mediators across Nevada, there is a particular need in Washoe County and in rural communities, including Nye and Esmeralda Counties. Mediations may be conducted virtually or in person depending on the district.
Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and a brief statement explaining why they are a good fit to JDMP Administrator Jae Barrick at jdmpnevada@gmail.com. Selected applicants will be invited to attend a five-day mediation training in Carson City, with final panel selection made following the training.
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