About Mediation

WHAT IS MEDIATION?

Mediation is a conversation facilitated by a neutral third party where disputants can meet to discuss their concerns and recognize common interests in order to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Once a solution is reached, a mediator records the agreement, and both parties sign a legally binding contract.

HOW DOES MEDIATION WORK?

When a person calls to schedule a mediation, we work with both parties to ensure they are willing to participate. We then schedule a time for the mediation. It usually takes 1-2 weeks to get this meeting scheduled. 

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During the meeting, the mediators will give each side a chance to express their thoughts and concerns without interruption. Then the mediators help the parties discus the issues and create solutions. 

It is the participants' job to design a solution that works for them. The mediators are simply there to help both parties talk about the issues constructively, not to tell the parties what to do. 

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Once an agreement is reached, the mediators will write it up and the parties will sign. This agreement becomes legally binding for all parties.

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If the parties are unable to reach agreement, the issues may still be taken to court or other dispute resolution forums.

WHY USE MEDIATION?

Mediation is a low-cost*, low-stress alternative to court proceedings. CRC mediations show a 70-80% success rate after a single meeting.

Most disputes are resolved within one meeting, and the average meeting length is two hours.

Flexible meeting times are available, including evenings.

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*if you are not able to meet the cost of a mediation session, alternate funding options are available.

HOW TO INITIATE MEDIATION?

Self-Referral

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Anyone can request mediation by calling the CRC and providing contact information for both parties. The CRC will schedule a mediating session. 

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Court Order

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Judges may order any case to mediation. Parties must then call the CRC to schedule a mediating session.

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WHO CAN USE MEDIATION?