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(a) In any proceeding under this chapter, an informal resolution of the contested issues may be arranged with the Tribal Court’s permission at or before the time the matter is set for a hearing.

(b) The informal resolution process may include counseling, mediation or another process that is acceptable according to Yurok community standards. The parties may seek the assistance of the Court to establish such a process or seek the approval of the Court for an agreed-upon process.

(c) The purpose of the informal dispute resolution process is to encourage cooperation, reduce acrimony and develop an agreement that to the extent possible meets the needs and best interests of all the parties involved. In the course of such an informal dispute resolution process, the Court may apply the customs and traditions of the Yurok Tribe.

(d) Informal dispute resolution proceedings shall be held in private and shall be confidential. By agreement the parties may have extended family members or supporting parties present, if the parties cannot agree as to who should be present the Court after consultation may make the decision and formulate the rules for such participation. No one shall testify in Tribal Court as to any aspect of the proceedings. However, if an agreement is reached by the parties it shall be reduced to writing, signed by the parties and filed with the Tribal Court. [Ord. 50 § 4.2, adopted, 3/23/2017.]