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Information

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a process through which disputants work together with the assistance of a neutral third party, trained in the technique of mediation, to arrive at a mutually acceptable agreement with regard to their conflict or dispute. The purpose of mediation is to settle disputes, not to assign blame, fault, or to legally represent either party. Mediation saves money, time, and allows a workable relationship, whereas, the court procedure is time consuming, expensive, and places the parties in adversarial positions. 

How do I open a mediation case?

1. Contact us to discuss your case and learn how mediation can be the ideal option in resolving your        conflict.
2. We will listen to your concerns and provide you with the paperwork to open your case.
3. Once we receive the paperwork, we will contact the other party to invite them to consider mediation. Both conversations remain confidential and the privacy of both parties is respected.
4. If the other party agrees to mediate, we will schedule a session at a convenient place and time so that both parties can work together to solve the conflict.
5. The mediation session usually lasts 1 to 2 hours. At the mediation session, the mediator listens to both parties to learn how each would like to resolve the dispute. The mediator does not decide who is right, but will help reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
6. When an agreement is reached, the resolution will be put in writing and signed by all parties.
7. Mediation is confidential, voluntary and neutral. The volunteer mediator acts as an impartial third party. They do not arbitrate, make decisions, or provide legal advice.

 What is the time frame?

Our agency provides timely service. After discussing your case with you, we will contact the other party and invite them to participate in mediation. We allow 10-14 days for the other party to respond. If the other party agrees to mediate we proceed to scheduling; finding a time that is convenient for both parties. At that point we call our list of volunteer mediators and assign the case. 

How much does it cost?

Our non-refundable fee is $25 ($75 if your attorney is involved) for each party involved and due before the mediation session. We are committed to providing mediation services to our community and will adjust or waive fees for low-income individuals who qualify. 

Community Mediation Fee: $25.00 per party (sliding scale for low-income individuals).  
Basic Mediation Volunteer Training Cost: $250.00

CAP Riverside’s Community Education Workshops empower individuals and families to gain a different perspective on how social and cultural differences influence the way they manage conflict. Our workshops focus on conflict resolution, communication, active listening, generation conflict and emotional awareness. We have been able to offer our workshops at no-cost to thousands of residents throughout Riverside County. One participant had the following to say about the first workshop he ever attended, “Thank you very much. I’ve learned more about myself and how to better work with the community, with my co-workers and especially my family!”