THE MEDIATION PROCESS:
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

Mediation is an informal process done in a neutral and private setting with trained mediators. The goal of mediation is to let people speak for themselves and work together to find a lasting solution to their conflict. 

The mediators are volunteers who have been professionally trained to help you resolve your issue. They will:

• Listen as you explain the issues of the conflict;

• Ask questions to help you and the other person clarify and understand the issues;

• Guide you through a process to develop solutions; and

• Assist you in writing an agreement that works for everyone involved. 

The mediators will not take sides, assess blame, or tell you what to do. The mediators will not force you to make a decision.

The mediation process is confidential, except in cases of child abuse, elder abuse, and credible threats of violence. The mediators will not give information shared in the mediation process to anyone outside the process without the permission of everyone involved.

Mediation is voluntary. Any participant can end the mediation process at any time, and no one can be forced to agree to anything.

The agreement is a summary of the solutions you and the other person decide on to solve your dispute. The agreement may be a legally binding document if you wish.

To prepare for mediation, think about what you need and what you are willing to do to achieve it.