NCJ Number
130640
Journal
Mediation Quarterly Volume: 8 Issue: 4 Dated: (Summer 1991) Pages: 281-291
Date Published
1991
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Family mediation in Israel has developed only on a small scale, available primarily in private practices conducted by social workers and psychologists; subsidized public mediation is offered in a few large cities.
Abstract
However, there are several factors favoring family mediation in Israel: the acceptability of divorce in Judaism, the cultural value placed on the family and on children, and the emphasis on harmony and forgiveness in Jewish tradition. On the other hand, three major obstacles stand in the way of family mediation development: the dual secular-religious structure of the judicial system; the complex body of family law that is largely based on Jewish religious law; and the current attitudes and practices of family law attorneys who are often highly adversarial and litigous in their approach. Additional obstacles include the attitudes and practices of mediators, inadequate training, lack of ideological commitment and resources, and the need for public education. Israeli couples who have mediated their divorces have done so to avoid the financial expense and potential escalation of hostility associated with attorney involvement. 6 references (Author abstract modified)