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Mediation Overview

Mediation is a confidential, non-adversarial and voluntary process through which a mediator hears a dispute between two or more individuals and attempts to help them settle their dispute.  The mediator remains neutral and does not decide who is right or wrong but helps the parties in talking about issues that are important to them.  The actual decisions reached are up to the parties in dispute. 
Mediation is a means by which people involved in dispute are helped to respectfully and peacefully resolve their differences.  Through mediation, the parties retain control of the decision-making process.  Going to court, on the other hand, is often lengthy and unnecessarily expensive.  Once the dispute reaches the courts parties often lose control of the decision-making process. 
For mediation to be most successful, the parties should be willing to participate in good faith to reach a settlement.  This doesn’t mean a positive outcome will be achieved in every situation.  Our mediators work with all parties until an agreement is reached or until it becomes apparent that an agreement will not be reached.  Often, parties in a mediation experience improved relationships even if an agreement is not reached.
Mediation is a voluntary process.  Any party may terminate the session at any time.  Attempting mediation does not block access to the court system. 

How to get started with mediation

If you would like to have your dispute mediated by the Center you may begin the process by proposing mediation to the person with whom you are having the dispute.  
If you are uncomfortable with direct contact in this manner you may contact CMC and we will make the contact for you.