The bill HB 652-FN proposes the abolition of the family division within the judicial system and the establishment of an office of family mediation, which will take over the jurisdiction previously held by the family division. Key changes include the insertion of new legal language that creates the office of family mediation, administered by the board of family mediator certification, and outlines its responsibilities, including providing voluntary mediation services for family matters such as divorce, custody, and support. The bill also introduces a mediation and arbitration fund to support both the new office and the existing office of mediation and arbitration, ensuring that funds are identifiable and nonlapsing. Additionally, it mandates a quality assurance program for both offices to monitor and evaluate mediation services.

Furthermore, the bill updates various legal references, replacing "district court" with "superior court" and clarifying the roles of mediators, emphasizing that decisions cannot be imposed and settlements must be voluntary. It also modifies the composition of the Family Mediators Board, increasing public members and changing the appointment process for judges. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, allowing for a transition period to implement these changes. Overall, HB 652-FN aims to streamline family law processes and enhance the effectiveness of mediation services in New Hampshire.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 490-E:2, 490-E:3, 490-F:3, 490-F:7, 491:7, 547:3, 328-C:2, 328-C:4, 328-C:4-a, 328-C:5, 461-A:7, 169-B:2, 169-B:10, 169-C:3, 169-C:28, 169-D:2, 169-G:3, 169-G:5, 170-G:4, 173-B:2, 458-D:3, 458-D:4, 458-D:7, 461-B:1, 463:8, 490:6-a, 490:25, 491-A:3, 491-A:4, 604-A:7
HB652 text: 490-E:2, 490-E:3, 490-F:3, 490-F:7, 491:7, 547:3, 328-C:2, 328-C:4, 328-C:4-a, 328-C:5, 461-A:7, 169-B:2, 169-B:10, 169-C:3, 169-C:28, 169-D:2, 169-G:2, 169-G:3, 169-G:5, 170-G:4, 173-B:2, 458-D:3, 458-D:4, 458-D:7, 461-B:1, 463:8, 490:6-a, 490:25, 491-A:3, 491-A:4, 604-A:7