Mending the Pieces:
Tools for Supporting Families as They Redefine Themselves

Keynote Speaker: Christina McGhee
Moderators: Concetta G. Spirio, Esq. and Donna LaScala, CDFA®
Thursday, April 24, 2025 ~ 11:30 am Lunch; 12:30 to 5 pm Masterclass
(5 CLEs and CEs Pending) 

Divorce doesn’t end a family—it changes it. How it changes depends on the support and guidance parents receive during these critical moments. As a first responder to divorce, you’re in a unique position to do more than help parents “get through it”—you can guide them toward redefining their family in a way that strengthens connection and helps their children feel grounded in a time of uncertainty.

This hands-on, interactive workshop will equip you with the tools to navigate the emotional complexities of divorce. You’ll learn how grief, stress, and overwhelm influence co-parenting dynamics and shape decision-making. Through practical strategies, real-world resources, and engaging exercises, you’ll gain actionable skills to help parents reduce conflict, make skillful choices, and stay focused on what truly matters—their children’s well-being.

Key takeaways:

Examine the complex emotional impact of divorce on families
● Explore how grief, stress, and loss shape co-parenting behaviors, decision-making, and parent-child relationships.

Learn how to implement new tools that help co-parents redefine their roles
● Discover innovative techniques you can use to guide parents from conflict to collaboration, fostering healthier co-parenting dynamics and developing a shared focus on children’s needs.

Enhance your ability to facilitate difficult conversations with co-parents while leveraging educational support skills
● Develop skills that to help parents navigate emotionally charged discussions, address differences, and create solutions while gaining critical skills.

Gain practical, ready-to-use resources for every experience level
● Receive materials designed to enhance your work, empower co-parents, and safeguard children’s emotional well-being, offering value for both new and seasoned practitioners.

PLENARY:

Our Ecosystem: How Courts and Divorce Mediators Can Work Together to Help Families in Transition

Speakers: Daniel Kos, Statewide ADR Coordinator and Bridget O’Connell, Esq. MSW, Court Attorney-Referee and Regional ADR Coordinator for Districts 5, 6, 7, 8 
Moderator: Lara Traum, Esq.
Friday, April 25, 2025 ~ 8:15 am to 9:45 am
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending) 

Much like the elements of any ecosystem, we are connected and inter-related. Let’s explore how.

How to Market and Build Your Practice

Speakers: Kevin Clark, Esq., and Nicolas Crocitto, Co-chairs of Public Awareness Committee, Liz Vaz, Esq., and Alex Clark
Moderator: Renee O. LaPoint, M.S.
Friday, April 25, 2025 ~ 10:15 am to 11:45 am 
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending)

Building and growing a successful mediation practice in today’s competitive environment requires more than expertise—it demands strategic marketing and public awareness efforts. This session will provide actionable insights into the latest trends in social media and Google, highlight the importance of marketing and public outreach, and explore opportunities for leveraging membership benefits to grow your practice.

Key Takeaways:
● Updates on social media, SEO and Google trends

● How to create engaging content and track your success
● 
Why video is essential

● How a strong personal brand builds trust and attracts clients

● Making the most of your membership and the Public Awareness Committee projects to help both yourself, the Council and the field as a whole 

Fair Shares & Tax Flares:

Navigating Equitable Distribution, Tax Impacts and Compensation in Divorce

Speakers: Steve Kaplan, CPA/ABV; Donna LaScala, CDFA®; and Jay Mota, CFP®, CDFA®, WMCP®, ChFC®, CQS®, MAFF®
Moderator: Mark Josephson, Esq., CPA, CFP, CFE, CGMA
Friday, April 25, 2025 ~ 10:15 am to 11:45 am
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending)

This interactive discussion will delve into a range of advanced topics critical to Equitable Distribution negotiations. Key areas of focus will include the tax implication of asset division, strategies for effective tax planning within various tax brackets, and the nuances of executive compensation. The session will also explore the intricacies of different financial product types that may be owned by your clients. The speakers will focus on exploring effective strategies for navigating these complex issues and offer insights into the approaches and resources available. Additionally, they will discuss how interdisciplinary professionals can collaborate with you and your clients to identify and achieve the most favorable and sustainable outcomes. Whether you’re seeking tools to enhance your practice or resources to better support your clients, this session will offer timely perspectives and practical guidance.

Key Takeaways:
● Learn about AMT’s, carryforwards and monetization of capital losses and how they impact ED discussions
● Identify various types of executive compensation
● Understand why the “offer letter” is a crucial component of the discussion
● Unwrap the distinctions of why life insurance, annuities, stocks, bonds and mutual funds are not equal

Improving Outcomes for Families with Structured Co-Parenting Communication

Speaker: Lindsay Morris, Our Family Wizard, Platinum Sponsor
Moderator: 
Friday, April 25, 2025 ~ 10:15 am to 11:15 am 
(1 CEs Pending)

Since 2001, the OurFamilyWizard website and mobile apps (OFW) have frequently been included in parenting agreements and court orders as a way to reduce litigation and improve family outcomes. This presentation will advise family law professionals of communication technology designed specifically for divorced and separated families to reduce conflict and improve co-parenting. Attendees will learn how parents and practitioners utilize OFW’s platform to manage and document communication. Each attendee will receive examples of agreements and court orders currently used to specify parent and professional use of OFW, as well as a full demonstration of the available features.
• Define common behaviors in relevant case types (i.e., high conflict, DV, orders for protection).
• Discuss how OFW has evolved since its pilot project to address these prevalent behaviors.
• Explore the OFW toolset for parents. Analyze the interface and how built-in rules create a
framework for amicable communication in a variety of case types.
• Demonstrate how the OFW Family Law Practitioner app supports the efforts of practitioners to
oversee parent activity and intervene when necessary.
• Examine court order and agreement examples, including relevant appellate decisions.
• Review the OFW Fee Waiver Program for low income families.
• Learn how to obtain declarations on authenticated records.

Key takeaways:
● Familiarize all attendees with the online tools that courts are ordering and recommending to parents for communicating their shared parenting needs.
● Recognize documents that may be presented as evidence in the courtroom.
● Learn how attorneys, special masters, minor's counsel, mediators, and other professionals may
work with and assess family needs utilizing these tools. 

Annual Meeting

Friday, April 25, 2025 ~ 12 pm to 1:30 pm

President's Report

Treasurer's Report

Election Results

Member Town Hall 

Business Valuation: Dispelling Common Myths

Speakers: Rosalia Labate CPA/CDFA/CVA/MAFF and Sheryl-Anne Sastow, Esq.
Moderator: Donna LaScala, CDFA®
Friday, April 25, 2025 ~ 1:30 pm to 3 pm
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending)

Business valuation is a critical aspect of many mediation cases, yet misconceptions about the process often lead to confusion or unrealistic expectations. This interactive discussion will demystify business valuation, provide a foundational understanding of its different forms, and explore the complex issues mediators may encounter.

Key Takeaways:
● Understand the different forms business valuation can take including income approach, market approach, and asset-based approach
● Gain an understanding of specific issues that can affect the mediation process including hidden assets and adjusting for non-standard financial practices or unusual circumstances (e.g., personal expenses mixed with business accounts)
● Learn about the myths professionals hear about all the time

Protecting Your Practice & Reputation from Cyber Threats

Speaker: Mike Mooney, Senior Vice President of USI Affinity
Moderator: Kristen G. Lyndaker, Esq. 
Friday, April 25, 2025 ~ 1:30 pm to 3 pm
(1.5 CLEs, CEs Pending) 

In a world where cyber threats evolve rapidly, it's imperative for professionals handling sensitive information to fortify their defenses. Practices such as mediation firms, law firms, financial services, and mental health providers face unique risks that require tailored solutions to mitigate exposure. By implementing robust cyber defenses and securing adequate insurance, you can protect not just your clients, but also your firm's reputation and financial stability.  Mike Mooney, Senior Vice President of USI Affinity, offers expertise on addressing these vulnerabilities with practical strategies and insurance insights.

Key Takeaways:
● Tangible Risk Management Tips to Avoid Cyber Exposure
[Best practices for securing client data (e.g., encryption, secure networks, regular training, how to identify and address phishing and ransomware threats]
● Tangible Risk Management Tips to Avoid Legal Malpractice
[How cyber incidents can lead to malpractice claims; complying with data protection regulations; handling breaches effectively]
● What to Look for in Malpractice and Cyber Policies
[Essential features of comprehensive legal malpractice insurance that align with your practice's needs]

Update on the Law

Speakers: Helene Bernstein, Esq., Hon. Celeste Bailey, Esq., and Katie Martin, Esq.
Moderator: Connie Fraser
Friday, April 25, 2025 ~ 3:15 PM to 5:15 pm
(2 CLEs and CEs Pending)

Members from Western, Central, and Downstate New York, who work with the courts, will share insights on recent mat-law cases and decisions specifically focusing on custody and parenting arrangements, child support and maintenance obligations, and equitable distribution of assets. Additionally, ethics, confidentially issues and other assorted topics will be addressed. Beyond case law, this session also will address critical topics such as ethical considerations, confidentiality challenges, and other nuanced issues. Participants can expect a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the latest legal trends and practical strategies to navigate these complex matters effectively.

Navigating the Complex Landscape of Surrogacy:

What Mediators Need to Know

Speakers: Rebecca L. Mendel, Esq. and Denise E. Seidelman, Esq.
Moderator: Carmen M. Rodriguez, Esq.
Saturday, April 26, 2025 ~ 8:30 am to 10 am 
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending)

The New York State Child Parent Security Act (CPSA), enacted in February 2021, marked a significant turning point in surrogacy, parentage, and assisted reproduction law. This presentation, led by two of the legislation's drafters, will provide a thorough understanding of surrogacy, parentage proceedings, and agreements surrounding gamete/embryo donation and embryo disposition. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the law's implementation and its impact over the past four years. 

Key Takeaways:
● Understanding the CPSA: Core principles and objectives of the Child Parent Security Act
● Guidelines for Drafting Gamete/Embryo Donation and Embryo Disposition Agreements 
● Four Years of Implementation: Lessons Learned & Practical insights into how the CPSA has been applied in real-world cases.

Closing Real Estate Loopholes in Mediation

Speakers: Alla Roytberg, Esq., and Stacy Francis, CFP®, CDFA®, CES™
Moderator: Jill Sanders-DeMott, Esq.
Saturday, April 26, 2025 ~ 8:30 am to 10 am
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending)

Mediators who help clients make real estate choices often face multiple challenges. A decision to sell a home or transfer its ownership to the soon-to-be-ex partner is wrought with emotional upheavals and financial concerns. How can a mediator help create a real estate flow chart for the parties’ process while honoring and balancing the emotions of all involved?

 Key takeaways:
● Identifying needs and goals of the parties
● Breaking down the real estate decision process
● Working with high-stakes emotions
● Analyzing the financial impact of how the property is handled
● Creating an implementation timeline including distribution of shared proceeds
● Dealing with delayed sales, unique property types, etc. 

Navigating Mental Health and Family Dynamics During Mediation

Speakers: Jihee Cho, Ph.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist, and Talaiya Safdar, Esq.
Moderator: Rachel Ji-Young Yoo, Esq.
Saturday, April 26, 2025 ~ 8:30 am to 10 am
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending)

There are a multitude of family dynamics that present unique challenges in mediation, especially when mental health concerns, emotional-regulating disorders, cultural norms, religious practices and other factors intersect with critical decision-making. Utilizing case scenarios, a mental health professional and mediators will explore how to recognize these dynamics and share strategies for navigating these complexities.

 Key takeaways:
● Explore the interplay between mental health considerations and custody arrangements; examine strategies for prioritizing the child’s well-being while addressing parental needs, abilities
● Recognize why decisions may not stick when one party has an emotional-regulating disorder; learn ways help move the parties forward
● Understand how cultural and religious considerations influence mediation outcomes and can result in additional emotional stressors for the parties; learn how to navigate these considerations and help parties reach effective and respectful decisions

The Spousal Maintenance Guidelines:
10 Years After

Speakers: Dan Burns, Esq.
Moderator: Ada L. Hasloecher
Saturday, April 26, 2025 ~ 10:30 am to 12 pm
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending)

It has been 10 years since New York adopted DRL 236B(6), the “Post Divorce Maintenance Awards.”  This session will address how the law came about, how the Guideline amount is determined, how the 15 factors are used in determining the amount and duration and how courts have interpreted this statute over the past 10 years.

Key Takeaways:
● Understand how the geographic area where the couple resides impacts how the “cap” is applied
● Learn how the elimination of the deductibility of spousal maintenance might affect the award
● Understand the role Social Security plays 
● Review the circumstances that allow for a modification of spousal support.

Addressing Addiction in Mediation:
Balancing Compassion and Safety 

Speakers: Micki McWade, LMSW, and Kenneth J. Novenstern, Esq.
Moderator: Steven M. Kaplan, CPA/ABV, MBA
Saturday, April 26, 2025 ~ 10:30 am to 12 pm
(1.5 CLEs and CEs Pending) 

Addiction is a common factor in family breakdown and is often a contributing reason for divorce. As mediators, it is essential to navigate these sensitive situations with respect, knowledge, and a commitment to both parties' well-being. This workshop will provide professionals with the tools to approach Substance Use Disorder (SUD) with less stigmatized language, a deeper understanding of addiction, and strategies for creating a safe and effective parenting plan. Additionally, the financial and legal implications of addiction will be discussed.

Key takeaways:
● Explore Substance Use Disorder through a modern, compassionate lens
● Understand the legal and financial consequences of addiction  
● Learn about recent changes in addiction treatment, particularly since the opioid crisis
● Examine the complex relationship between trauma and addiction
● Recognize patterns of codependency and their impact on mediation
● Discuss the role of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in sustaining recovery
● Identify ways to ensure children's safety and well-being in the parenting plan

You Asked For It!
Casual Lunch to Reconnect, Recap & Reinvigorate!

Saturday, April 26, 2025 ~ 12 pm to 1 pm  (Or hang out longer if you like!)

You've asked for more time during the conference to catch up with longtime colleagues and build bonds with new friends. Our closing lunch will give you focused time to socialize, discuss business, recap highlights from the conference - whatever you like. As you hit the road home and go back to helping clients, you will do so inspired and reinvigorated. Boxed lunches will be provided so you have the option of eating lunch in the hotel, going outside for a picnic, or heading home with some nourishment. 

Focus on YOUR Self Care and Healing

Yoga, sound baths, nature walks and other opportunities throughout the conference to take time to take care of yourself. 

Cocktail Reception & Awards Dinner

Thursday, April 24, 2025, 6:30 pm

Cocktail Reception, Dinner & Entertainment

Friday, April 25, 2025 6:30 pm

Business Expo

Promote your products and services to attendees Thursday, April 24, through Saturday, April 26. To promote your business click here. 

NYSDRA MEMBERS and MEMBERS OF OTHER STATE ORGANIZATIONS THAT DO NOT PRACTICE IN NEW YORK, are eligible for NYSCDM member rates. Government and court employees are eligible for member rates as well. Please email [email protected] 


CONTINUING LEGAL EDUCATION: “New York State Council on Divorce Mediation has been certified by the New York State Continuing Legal Education Board as an Accredited Provider of continuing legal education in the State of New York through July 24, 2025. CLE credits will be earned depending on sessions attended. All sessions are suitable for newly appointed and experienced attorneys. Continuing Education credits are provided for beginning and advanced mediators." [email protected]  

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS for social workers are pending. 

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS for mediators and allied professionals will be provided for all sessions by NYSCDM.

FINANCIAL SPONSORSHIP: NYSCDM’s Financial sponsorship policy is available upon written request. To apply, write Connie Fraser at Crossbridge Office Park, 2000 S. Winton Road, Bldg. 4, Suite 305, Rochester, New York 14618 [email protected]

REFUNDS: For requests received via email by April 15, refunds will be granted as follows: amount paid, less a $75 administrative fee. Thereafter, no refunds will be granted. In the case of Covid-19, refunds or credits will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

ACCESSIBILITY: If you have any requirements for accessibility or other needs, please let us know on the event registration form or contact [email protected] 

DIETARY ACCOMMODATIONS: If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know on the event registration form or contact [email protected]

SCHEDULING: All efforts were made to ensure the accuracy of the schedule. If there are any unforeseen changes, all efforts will be made to provide replacement speakers or sessions that are equally dynamic.

PHOTOGRAPHY,  VIDEOGRAPHY & RECORDING: By registering and/or attending the NYSCDM Annual Conference, you are providing your consent to be photographed, videoed or otherwise recorded. Such content will be used at the discretion of the Council on websites, on social media platforms, in printed materials, and via other media assets. By physically attending and participating in the conference, you are waiving and releasing any claims related to the use of your likeness at the event. Currently, there are no plans to record or simulcast conference sessions. If that changes, this policy will cover that activity. 

HEALTH AND SAFETY - The Council encourages all attendees to use their best judgment and appropriate precautions while attending this event. Currently there are no restrictions on gatherings in New York State. Should anything change, we will notify you. If you feel more comfortable wearing masks, practicing safe distancing or taking other precautions while attending the event, please feel free to do so. The Council will work with the hotel provide reasonable accommodations and use best health and safety practices for all attendees.

ADVERTISING AND SPONSORSHIP POLICY - As a 501(c)(3) organization, the New York State Council on Divorce Mediation (NYSCDM) does not accept advertisements promoting political, religious, or ideological views. This policy ensures that all advertising content aligns with our mission to maintain an unbiased and professional environment for all members. NYSCDM reserves the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for publication for any reason. NYSCDM also reserves the right to remove any advertisement at any time if it does not meet with our standards, violates our policies, or is deemed inappropriate or inconsistent with our values. NYSCDM is not obligated to provide an explanation for the rejection or removal of any advertisement. 

By registering for this event, you hereby acknowledge and agree to the following:

1) The NYSCDM will follow New York State laws regulating events. At this time, there are no requirements for proof of vaccinations for Covid-19;

2) If you are not feeling well during the time of the event, due to any illness, you will use appropriate precautions to protect the health of other event attendees, which might include wearing a mask, safe distancing, not attending event sessions, etc.;

3) You are aware that there are inherent risks and hazards connected with attending in-person events that cannot be eliminated regardless of the care taken and you assume the risk of such risks, including, but not limited to, the potential of being infected with COVID-19;

4) Understanding the inherent risks, you are electing to voluntarily attend the event; and

5) You release the Council from any and all liability arising out of or relating to any injury or illnesses (including COVID-19) sustained by you while participating in or attending the event, including while in, on, or upon the premises where the event is being conducted, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law.