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Southeastern Dispute Resolution
This program is available in Jackson, Lenawee, Hillsdale and Monroe Counties. |
Overview
Southeastern Dispute Resolution Services (SDRS) provides mediation services to resolve disputes without going to court. Mediation is a 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 (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. A mediator does not force anybody to reach an agreement they aren't comfortable with or to accept any particular settlement terms.
Who Is Eligible?
Individuals, businesses, landlords, tenants, schools or anyone who would like to resolve a dispute without going to court.
Additional Program Information
When you call a mediation center, you will speak with a worker who will take down some basic information and answer any questions you have about mediation. The center then contacts the other party to see if they would like to try mediation. If both parties agree, a mediation session is quickly scheduled.
During the mediation session, each party describes the dispute from their point of view. Then they explain how they think the matter can be resolved. The mediators help the parties focus on the real issues causing the problem, and then help find a workable solution which resolves the problem. When the parties agree on one solution, the agreement is put in writing.
Because mediators do not offer legal advice, you should know your legal rights before attending a mediation session, Of course, you are free to consult with or to obtain the services of an attorney to assist you. Attorneys can attend mediation sessions, too.
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What kinds of problems can be worked out through mediation?
- Property damage
- Neighborhood issues such as shared driveway, noise or fence problems
- Problems buying, selling or repairing something
- Business and contract disputes
- Landlord/tenant disputes
- Family disputes, such as contested wills or curfew agreements
- Special education disputes
- Agricultural disputes
- Anything you would sue somebody for in small claims court
- And many other types of disputes as long as both sides agree to try mediation
Why Dispute Resolution?
- It's a fair process; it works!
- It's affordable: at low or no cost to participants
- It's quick! Scheduled within a short time and completed in a few hours
- It's effective: 80% end in agreement
- It's convenient: scheduled at the convenience of the participants
- It's private and confidential: participants keep their matters private
Community Action's Southeastern Dispute Resolution program is sanctioned to provide mediation in the following areas:
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