Everything said or written in the course of the mediation is confidential. All parties sign an agreement to that effect. The mediator cannot testify for either party should they later go to court on a matter that was mediated. VMS contacts the other party or parties, explains mediation, offers to mediate the dispute, and sets up an appointment. Disputes are usually resolved in one session, lasting one to three hours.
Complex cases involving many parties take longer.
Daytime or evening appointments are available. There is no cost to the parties. VMS mediators are volunteers who are well trained and highly skilled in the mediation process. VMS is funded by a grant from the Court System, and is offered as a public service through the Los Angeles County Dept. of Community and Senior Services. There is no risk.