Gryphon Place
1104 South Westnedge
Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008
Telephone: 269-552-3434
FAX: 269-381-0935
THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS BELONGS TO YOU - You decide how to best resolve your dispute and you participate in reaching an agreement with which you can live.
IT WORKS - Thousands of cases have been successfully mediated to all parties' satisfaction. Mediation is a "win/win" rather than a "win/lose" solution. In court someone wins, someone loses. The goal of mediation is to have all parties arrive at a mutually satisfactory agreement.
IT'S INEXPENSIVE - The service is provided at low or no cost.
IT'S QUICK - Mediation sessions are scheduled as soon as is convenient upon both parties agreement and can usually be settled in one session.
IT'S EFFECTIVE - Agreement has been reached in 82% of all cases mediated by RESOLVE. In fact, the likelihood of settling a dispute to both parties' satisfaction through mediation is much higher than in small claims court.
IT'S CONVENIENT - Mediation can be held in your area on weekdays, Saturdays and evenings to accommodate parties' schedules.
IT'S PRIVATE - All discussions related to the subject of the mediation remain confidential and cannot be used in a lawsuit.
IT'S JUST - In mediation, individuals involved in a dispute have the power to achieve justice. Mediation allows the individuals to become active participants in creating a solution that works.
IT PRESERVES RELATIONSHIPS - Mediation is forward looking, and resolves disputes in such a way that can keep relationships.
2. You will speak with a worker who will take down some basic information and answer questions about the process.
3. If we feel we can help you, we will contact the second party by letter and/or telephone to obtain their consent for participation in mediation.
4. If both parties agree to use the service, a mediation session is scheduled.
5. During the session each party has an opportunity to explain the dispute from their point of view. The mediators help the parties define the issues or problems involved in the dispute. Possible solutions are explored to resolve the conflict aiming for a win/win situation, taking the needs and interests of both parties into account.
6. When an agreement is reached, the terms are put in writing and signed by both parties. Each party receives a copy.
7. Mediation does not preclude any other options. If it fails, litigation or arbitration can be pursued.
Dispute mediation is facilitated by trained volunteers who have completed a 40-hour course approved by the State Court Administrative Office. Cases taken to RESOLVE are handled with reliable expertise and professionalism.
Mediations can be scheduled at convenient times in several areas throughout Calhoun County on weekdays, Saturdays and evenings.
MEDIATION Mediation is a negotiation process in which two or more people involved in a dispute meet in a private, confidential setting and, with the help of a neutral person (a mediator), work out a solution to their problem.
A mediator is not a judge; he or she does not decide who is right or wrong in a disagreement. A mediator does not force any of the disputing parties to reach agreement or to accept particular settlement terms.
During mediation all parties involved in the dispute explain the problem situation as they see it and present their ideas on how they think the matter can be resolved. Mediators help the disputing parties develop and agree upon a realistic, workable solution to their problem, based on the needs and interests of both parties.
If you are involved in a dispute, you are encouraged to become familiar with your legal rights. You are free to consult with or obtain the services of an attorney to assist you, and attorneys can attend mediation sessions.
Property damage disputes
Consumer/merchant disputes
Business and contract disputes
Small claims
Professional/client disputes
Workplace disagreements
Family or household disputes
Disputes between friends
Disputes with and between children and teens
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) disputes
Zoning and pubic policy disputes
Other disputes when both sides agree to try mediation
Disputes involving controlled substances or substance abuse
Return to Calhoun County Courts Homepage
Last Updated 4-13-07
Send your comments, questions and suggestions to Phil Harter at 161 E Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014 or e mail to pharter@calhouncountymi.gov