Lithuanian notaries now provide mediation in matrimonial disputes

Legal amendments in Lithuania, effective as of January 1, 2020, open way for resolution of matrimonial disputes through mediation, a service provided by notaries, as well as other certified mediation specialists.

"The Law on Mediation amendments introducing mandatory mediation in matrimonial cases was no news to notaries. Notary's profession by itself considers finding solutions which benefit all parties of dispute. Mediating in disputes it is professional nature of notary", Marius Stračkaitis, President of Lithuanian Chamber of Notaries, said.

According to the law, mandatory mediation is applicable to cases of divorce, adjudication of child support and place of residence and other matrimonial disputes.

Mediation services may be provided by certified persons only. Nearly all of 250 notaries in Lithuania have graduated from relevant courses and received mediators certificates issued by Universities of Mykolas Romeris and Vytautas Magnus, as well as other institutions.