For more information on mediation statewide, please check the Judicial Council of California's website, Small Claims Court Information Center . Mediation can be beneficial to both plaintiffs and defendants. Mediators are specially trained to help people with conflicts find constructive ways to resolve them. Even if the other party involved in the case seems unreasonable or you have already tried to resolve your case, mediation may still be helpful. Mediation allows the parties involved in the case to choose solutions that work best for them.
Mediation allows the parties to retain control over what happens in their case.
The mediation session takes place outside the courtroom on the day scheduled for the trial. Both the plaintiff and defendant must agree to participate in the process. A mediator from the program will meet with you and the other party in your case. You do not need to make an appointment ahead of time to participate in mediation on the day of your hearing, however, you may call the program office ahead of time if you wish to try and resolve your Small Claims case prior to the hearing date. If your case is resolved through mediation, you and the other party will sign a document that outlines what you both have agreed to do.