What is Mediation?
Conflict is a normal and inevitable part of life. As long as we are alive and feeling, thinking, questioning and making decisions, we will encounter conflict. We are just as likely to have conflicts with people we like as with those we don't like. Some conflict we can see coming; other conflicts seem to come up unexpectedly. Our ability to deal effectively with conflict is tested constantly, and the effects of conflict on our lives can become enormous.
It makes sense that you would want to maximize your ability to resolve conflicts in an effective way.
Mediation is the most effective way to handle conflicts and disputes.
What is mediation?
Mediation is a process in which the people involved in a dispute sit down and find their own resolution with the help of mediators. Mediators (a person who is neutral to the dispute) keeps the process civil, listens to both sides of the situation, gets people talking and helps put the dispute in clear and concise terms so that all parties can discuss options for a resolution.
The mediation process is a voluntary process. You can leave the mediation at any time for any reason, or for no reason at all.
Unlike a court of law, where parties come to win at any costs, those who chose mediation simply want to be heard and to work out a solution. The fact that no one imposes a decision greatly reduces the need for someone to posture and/or possibly shade the truth. Decision making power (and veto power) are completely yours. Nothing can be imposed on you. If mediation is not successful, the parties may then use arbitration or the courts. The amazing thing about mediation is how well it works. Studies show that between 85%- 95% of those who choose mediation find it successful.
Our mediators can end the hearing if at any time they feel that you do not have enough information about your rights or obligations. They will tell you if it seems that your problem requires a lawyer, financial advisor or some other type of professional. You can revoke your consent to participate at any time during the process and withdraw from the mediation.
I've heard of arbitration. Is mediation the same as arbitration?
Mediation and arbitration are not the same process. In arbitration someone else makes the decision for you. This is more like a decision by a judge except you may get to choose the arbitrator. Arbitration is binding; this means that you cannot appeal the arbitrator's decision.
Why would I use mediation instead of going to court?
Unlike a court proceeding, where only matters relevant to the dispute can be considered, anything can be discussed in a mediation session. Often the result is that hidden problems, not even mentioned at first but at the heart of the dispute, emerge. Another consideration is that court is a public process and the court's files are public record. Mediation is completely confidential. Nothing that is said or written in mediation may be used later without the consent of all those involved. All participants must sign an Agreement to Participate in Confidential Mediation before the mediation begins.
Who are the mediators?
CCDS uses certified mediators who function as lead mediators. You will have between one and four mediators selected for your case. The mediators have no personal interests or biases concerning the content or outcome of your case. None of our mediators are attorneys. Our mediators do not give legal advice. CCDS selects and schedules the mediators.
What makes a competent Mediator?
Unfortunately there is not a concrete answer to this question. Currently there is no certification process in California unless you are a “Community” mediator.
Qualified mediators come with different education and work experience backgrounds. Competence depends on whether the mediator has the right mix of acquired training, experience and natural abilities.
Skills most important to a good mediator include:
How long does mediation take?
Once the parties agree to participate, the session will generally be scheduled within two weeks. Sessions last between one half hour to four hours. Occasionally, more than one session is needed.
Where and when do mediations take place?
Mediations can take place at our office, a location convenient for you, or virtually. Session can be scheduled at any time that works for the parties and the Mediator.
How much does it cost?
Because the process is much faster than arbitration and/or litigation, the cost is much less expensive. CCDS bases its charges on the complexity of the dispute. Traditionally, the disputants share charges (i.e. one half by each party in the conflict). We will inform you of the cost before your session is scheduled. If cost is an issue for you, let us know. We have a sliding scale for parties with limited or no income.
What types of disputes does CCDS mediate?
CCDS provides mediation services for all types of disputes including conflicts between:
How do I start the mediation process?
By calling CCDS @ (925) 337-7175
Who is CCDS?
The Center for Community Dispute Settlement has been in the conflict resolution business since 1995. We have been working with the Alameda County Superior Court since our business began. We also offer a panel of expert Mediators with a variety of specialties.
It makes sense that you would want to maximize your ability to resolve conflicts in an effective way.
Mediation is the most effective way to handle conflicts and disputes.
What is mediation?
Mediation is a process in which the people involved in a dispute sit down and find their own resolution with the help of mediators. Mediators (a person who is neutral to the dispute) keeps the process civil, listens to both sides of the situation, gets people talking and helps put the dispute in clear and concise terms so that all parties can discuss options for a resolution.
The mediation process is a voluntary process. You can leave the mediation at any time for any reason, or for no reason at all.
Unlike a court of law, where parties come to win at any costs, those who chose mediation simply want to be heard and to work out a solution. The fact that no one imposes a decision greatly reduces the need for someone to posture and/or possibly shade the truth. Decision making power (and veto power) are completely yours. Nothing can be imposed on you. If mediation is not successful, the parties may then use arbitration or the courts. The amazing thing about mediation is how well it works. Studies show that between 85%- 95% of those who choose mediation find it successful.
Our mediators can end the hearing if at any time they feel that you do not have enough information about your rights or obligations. They will tell you if it seems that your problem requires a lawyer, financial advisor or some other type of professional. You can revoke your consent to participate at any time during the process and withdraw from the mediation.
I've heard of arbitration. Is mediation the same as arbitration?
Mediation and arbitration are not the same process. In arbitration someone else makes the decision for you. This is more like a decision by a judge except you may get to choose the arbitrator. Arbitration is binding; this means that you cannot appeal the arbitrator's decision.
Why would I use mediation instead of going to court?
Unlike a court proceeding, where only matters relevant to the dispute can be considered, anything can be discussed in a mediation session. Often the result is that hidden problems, not even mentioned at first but at the heart of the dispute, emerge. Another consideration is that court is a public process and the court's files are public record. Mediation is completely confidential. Nothing that is said or written in mediation may be used later without the consent of all those involved. All participants must sign an Agreement to Participate in Confidential Mediation before the mediation begins.
Who are the mediators?
CCDS uses certified mediators who function as lead mediators. You will have between one and four mediators selected for your case. The mediators have no personal interests or biases concerning the content or outcome of your case. None of our mediators are attorneys. Our mediators do not give legal advice. CCDS selects and schedules the mediators.
What makes a competent Mediator?
Unfortunately there is not a concrete answer to this question. Currently there is no certification process in California unless you are a “Community” mediator.
Qualified mediators come with different education and work experience backgrounds. Competence depends on whether the mediator has the right mix of acquired training, experience and natural abilities.
Skills most important to a good mediator include:
- Ability to maintain neutrality
- Ability to keep confidentiality
- Ability to communicate and to assist others in communicating
- Ability to listen and understand
- Ability to define and clarify issues
- Ability to assist with creative and constructive options for resolution
How long does mediation take?
Once the parties agree to participate, the session will generally be scheduled within two weeks. Sessions last between one half hour to four hours. Occasionally, more than one session is needed.
Where and when do mediations take place?
Mediations can take place at our office, a location convenient for you, or virtually. Session can be scheduled at any time that works for the parties and the Mediator.
How much does it cost?
Because the process is much faster than arbitration and/or litigation, the cost is much less expensive. CCDS bases its charges on the complexity of the dispute. Traditionally, the disputants share charges (i.e. one half by each party in the conflict). We will inform you of the cost before your session is scheduled. If cost is an issue for you, let us know. We have a sliding scale for parties with limited or no income.
What types of disputes does CCDS mediate?
CCDS provides mediation services for all types of disputes including conflicts between:
- Business (Clients, Customers, Suppliers, Distributors)
- Real Estate
- Construction
- Workplace
- Personal
How do I start the mediation process?
By calling CCDS @ (925) 337-7175
Who is CCDS?
The Center for Community Dispute Settlement has been in the conflict resolution business since 1995. We have been working with the Alameda County Superior Court since our business began. We also offer a panel of expert Mediators with a variety of specialties.