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Contributing to Access to Mediation

Thank you for your interest in contributing to this open-source project. We welcome contributions from mediators, attorneys, researchers, technologists, and anyone committed to improving access to quality family mediation.

How to Contribute

Report Issues

  • Use GitHub Issues to report errors, outdated information, or missing content
  • Include the specific reference file or template affected
  • Cite the applicable standard if relevant

Suggest Improvements

  • Open a GitHub Issue describing your suggestion
  • For new templates or reference files, describe the use case and applicable standards

Submit Changes

  1. Fork the repository
  2. Create a feature branch (git checkout -b feature/your-improvement)
  3. Make your changes
  4. Submit a pull request with a clear description

Content Standards

All contributions must:

  • Be grounded in published model standards — cite AFCC/ABA 2025, ABA/AAA/ACR 2005, or other recognized mediation standards
  • Use trauma-informed, court-neutral language — no inflammatory language, no accusations, no bias
  • Include appropriate disclaimers — this is educational information, not legal advice
  • Be jurisdiction-aware — note when guidance may vary by state or jurisdiction
  • Protect confidentiality — never include real case details, names, or identifying information
  • Be accessible — write for mediators of varying experience levels

Priority Contribution Areas

  1. State-specific jurisdiction guides — how model standards interact with state mediation statutes (use jurisdictions/TEMPLATE.md)
  2. Interactive tools and applications — React components for mediators and parties, including new tools, party preparation features, and enhancements to existing apps in app/
  3. Translations — making templates available in Spanish, French, Mandarin, and other languages
  4. Additional templates — child interview protocols, co-mediation agreements, and other practice documents
  5. Practice scenarios — real-world "What do I do when..." situations with standards-based guidance
  6. Research citations — linking guidance to evidence-based practice research
  7. Accessibility — plain language versions, visual guides, screen reader compatibility, WCAG 2.1 AA compliance

Code of Conduct

This project follows the Contributor Covenant Code of Conduct. By contributing, you agree to abide by its terms.

Core expectations:

  • Be respectful and constructive
  • Center the wellbeing of families and children in all contributions
  • Acknowledge that mediation practices vary across jurisdictions and cultures
  • Do not include content that favors one party type over another
  • Do not include content that constitutes legal advice

Security

If you discover a security vulnerability, please report it privately following the process in SECURITY.md. Do not open a public issue for security vulnerabilities.

Questions?

Open a GitHub Issue or contact the maintainer at dougdevitre@gmail.com.