Mediation is a dispute resolution technique designed to resolve
problems which develop between people. The individuals sit down with
a trained mediator and work towards a mutually agreeable solution.
What are the goals of mediation?
- To serve community members and organizations as a resource in
order to resolve disputes effectively and inexpensively.
- To prevent the escalation of disputes into violence or more
serious criminal / civil matters.
- To teach individuals how to resolve their problems through
facilitated communication.
- To relieve the civil court system of some matters that do not
need a formal judicial resolution.
What types of conflicts can be handled through mediation?
Annoyances, domestic conflicts, interpersonal conflicts, breach of
contracts, romantic involvements, parent-child conflicts,
family-school conflicts or intergroup conflicts may all be mediated.
Why do people use mediation?
- Mediation is voluntary. People who agree to mediate want to
resolve the issue(s).
- The session is scheduled quickly, at a time and place convenient
to both parties.
- Both parties share their opinions.
- The content of the mediation session is kept confidential.
- Any agreements must be mutual.
- Related problems can be identified and referrals
made to appropriate agencies.
- People learn how to take responsibility and resolve their own
disputes.
- Escalation of minor matters into serious situations can be
avoided.
- Mediation allows the court system to address more
complex matters.
- Similar programs have demonstrated a high satisfaction and
compliance rate in other communities.
How does the mediation process work?
The person who has a complaint contacts the mediation service. The
other party is requested to join them for a mediation conference. A
trained mediator explains the mediation process to both individuals.
Each person in the dispute presents his or her position. The mediator
may talk separately with both persons. A written agreement is drawn
up and signed by both parties, facilitated by the mediator.
Who may utilize the mediation service?
Parents, Teachers, Managers, Attorneys, Employees, Citizens,
...literally any member of the Community may contact Mediation
Services. The only prerequisite is that both parties have a sincere
interest in resolving their dispute.
Who will conduct the mediation?
Professionally trained volunteer mediators from Adams County serve as
mediators.
What is the cost of the mediation?
There is an inexpensive sliding scale, based on income and ranging form
$5 to $50 per session,
for this public service provided by Mediation Services of Adams County.
Whom do I contact with questions about mediation services?
Call 334-7312 or write to MSAC. Our address is:
Mediation Services of Adams County
Box 4113
Gettyburg, PA 17325
