The results are binding only by mutual agreement of the parties. Participants use an impartial, professional mediator to help conduct and conclude settlement negotiations quickly and amicably thereby avoiding the time, expense and risk of protracted litigation. The mediation session is informal, ordinarily lasting three hours or less. The mediation process is entirely confidential, including the terms of agreement, if the parties so choose. If agreement is reached, the parties have the option of filing their agreement with the Court of filing a stipulation of dismissal.
Unsettled cases move forward on the docket without prejudice or delay.
Questions and Scheduling Attorneys may request referral to mediation at any time. If you have any questions about mediation or if you would like to schedule a mediation session, please call the case manager for the assigned judge. Mediation is a dispute resolution process in which a trained, neutral third party assists persons involved in a dispute to negotiate a settlement acceptable to both sides. In personal injury actions, a representative from the insurance carrier must participate in the mediation settlement conference. The mediators are impartial third persons appointed by the Court or selected by agreement of the parties to a controversy to assist them in reaching a mutually acceptable resolution to their case.