Carlton Avery proposes Montgomery conflict resolution program to alleviate court backlogs

The Montgomery County Commission held an information meeting on February 18, 2025, where mediator Carlton Avery presented a proposal for establishing a conflict resolution program in Montgomery County. Avery, representing Avery Mediation Services, emphasized the importance of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and highlighted his extensive training, which exceeds state requirements.

Avery's firm has successfully resolved thousands of disputes across nine counties in Alabama, primarily through landlord-tenant mediation. He expressed a desire to replicate this success in Montgomery County, noting that the current landlord-tenant program in collaboration with Jones Law School is temporary. Avery proposed a partnership with the law school to develop a more sustainable conflict resolution initiative.

During the meeting, Avery clarified that his mediation services differ significantly from existing violence prevention programs, as they adhere to strict state regulations and screening protocols, particularly in cases involving domestic violence. He noted that approximately 90% of their cases are court-ordered, but they also engage in community dispute resolution initiatives.

Avery highlighted the potential benefits of community engagement, suggesting that local leaders could be trained in conflict resolution techniques, which could help alleviate the backlog of cases in the court system. He also mentioned the possibility of addressing employee disputes within county personnel, drawing from successful initiatives implemented in other counties.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration to enhance conflict resolution efforts in Montgomery County, aiming to reduce court congestion and foster community-based solutions.