Gov. Riley Signs Mediation Confidentiality Bill Supported By Alabama State Bar

Montgomery, Ala., May 21, 2008 - The Alabama State Bar today hailed the passage of an important bill signed into law by Gov. Bob Riley which improves the administration of justice for all citizens.

The measure ensures that information divulged during mediation is confidential and can not be disclosed before and after litigation is filed.

State Bar President Samuel N. Crosby (Stone, Granade & Crosby P.C., Daphne) said, "Thanks to the partnership of the bench and bar, and the hard work of our lawyer-legislators, the passage of this bill improves the administration of justice in Alabama."

This is a synopsis of the bill:

• HB 30 sponsored by Rep. Demetrius Newton and SB 133 by Senator Roger Smitherman - Civil Procedure - Under existing law, by court rule, in a court sanctioned mediation, a mediator may not be required to divulge confidential information nor compelled to produce documents. This bill would provide that any mediator could not be compelled in a judicial proceeding to testify relating to the mediation or to divulge documents received by the mediator.

The 15,700-member Alabama State Bar is dedicated to promoting the professional responsibility, competence and satisfaction of its members; improving the administration of justice, and; increasing public understanding and respect for the law.

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