Trained volunteers from the community mediation centers serve as mediators. If the parties cannot settle their dispute through mediation, then the judge generally makes a decision that same day. Mediators assist in resolving issues concerning evictions. Parties are encouraged to work out payment plans that allow the tenant to stay on the property or to jointly work out a time-line for the tenant to vacate the premises. If the parties cannot settle their case through mediation, then the judge generally makes a decision that day.
Mediation is free and provided by volunteer mediators from the community mediation centers.
ADR At Family Court Family Court deals with virtually all legal matters affecting Hawaii s families and children. Family Court matters include divorce, paternity, and issues relating to child custody. Family Court and ADR go together well because of the continuing relationships. The Family Court in each circuit has a program designed to educate parents about the impact divorce has on children and encourages them to negotiate or mediate their disputes in the least harmful way to their children. This program is called Kids First.