Mediation is the process by which a neutral third party facilitates negotiations between parties. Its object is to assist the parties in reaching an agreement which is satisfactory, fair, and acceptable.

Mediation has several advantages over the traditional litigation process. Mediation presents a win / win situation rather than the win / lose result usually generated in an adverse court proceeding. This process is less costly to the parties and is conducted in a less formal, more comfortable setting. Mediation allows the parties to maintain control of the terms of the settlement of the dispute.

The goal of the Divorcing Parents Program is to assist parents in understanding the impact of divorce on their children, help to reduce conflict, and offer practical solutions to future problems. All parties filing for divorce with children under the age of 18 years are required to attend this program before the final divorce decree is entered.

No. The judge and the ADR Office will work together to determine if a case is appropriate for mediation. If significant violence has occurred during a relationship, or if a party cannot negotiate on an equal footing with the other, the case may not be appropriate for mediation.