|
What is Mediation?
"Mediation is an informal way for people to come
together and talk through their conflict with the help of an
impartial third party. During the mediation, each person has the
opportunity to vocalize their issues and concerns surrounding the
conflict. The mediator helps each person evaluate their needs and
goals for reaching a solution. All decisions are made by the
parties, not the mediator."
Time Involved
"Since each conflict is different, the length of time and number of
sessions may vary by the complexity of the issues involved. The
average mediation last 2-3 hours."
Attendance &
Resolution
"Attendance is mandatory in most cases. Although
the presence of an attorney may not be required, parties are
encouraged to consult their attorneys throughout the process. The
mediator will assist the parties in executing the necessary forms to
complete the case. If an agreement is not reached, your case will
continue through the normal judicial process. Although attendance is
mandatory, resolution is not."
How to Select a
Mediator
"The parties may select a mediator from the
current directory of individuals certified by the Alternative
Dispute Resolution Office. For a complete list of mediator names,
find your county under "Select a Mediator" and click the link. All
parties must agree on the mediator. If no such agreement can be
reached, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Office will assign a
mediator randomly."
How Much Will
Mediation Cost?
"On average, mediators charge between $100 and
$200 per hour. This cost is split equally between the plaintiff(s)
and the defendant(s). Parties should be prepared to compensate the
mediator at the ADR session. If a party feels that they cannot
afford to pay for mediation, they may apply for a waiver of the
mediator's fees. Applications for this waiver must be made through
the ADR Office prior to the scheduled mediation. Click Here for Fee
Waiver Form."
Confidentiality
"Mediators
shall keep confidential any information pertaining to the actual
content of the case from anyone outside the ADR Session. The
parties, court personnel or other observers are also bound by this
high level of confidentiality. Procedural issues, however, may need
clarification from the ADR office. " |