BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Buffalo City Court is launching a new Community Dispute Resolution Program (CDR).
Erie County District Attorney John Flynn, The Center for Resolution and Justice, and The Legal Aid Bureau announced Wednesday the diversion program as an alternative to criminal proceedings.
The program will utilize mediation and conflict coaching to resolve issues between a complainant and defendant with a neutral party party to identify issues, clarify perceptions and explore options for an appropriate resolution.
Referrals to the program will be made by the assistant district attorney or defense attorney upon request of either party or during plea negotiations in a criminal case. Once a case is referred to the CDR program, each party will meet with a representative to schedule a meeting to further discuss the issue.
The services are free, voluntary and confidential.
Eligible cases include, but are not limited to:
- Harassment
- Criminal trespassing
- Criminal mischief
- Menacing
- Noise complaints
- Minor assault
- Property damage
Domestic violence matters, orders of protection and allegations of child abuse or neglect are restricted from this program.
