Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of cases does the Mediation and Facilitation Clinic handle?A: The Clinic is designed to handle personal disputes between two or more people in an independent living or working situation. Examples include conflicts between roommates, boyfriends/girlfriends, family members, classmates, and others. Some common disputes involve noise levels, sharing of expenses, property issues, relationship problems, and work- related conflicts.
Q: What is the typical mediation process?
A: Mediators facilitate a problem-solving process in which the disputants themselves define the issues and work toward the creation of a mutually agreeable solution. If an
agreement is reached, it is usually put in written form. This process typically takes 2-3 hours, but varies depending on the case.
Q: Are sessions confidential?
A: Yes, unless allegations of threat or abuse are reported.
Benefits of mediation
Issues are resolved privately and confidentially.Disputants can communicate openly in a safe environment.
Mediation is fast and convenient.
Emphasis on problem-solving rather than finger pointing.
Solutions are created by the disputants themselves,increasing the chance of a long-lasting agreement.
Disputants learn communication skills and methods for handling conflicts constructively.