Mediation

In mediation, you and the other side meet with a neutral, highly qualified professional called a mediator. The mediator helps you discuss issues and work out a solution in a confidential setting. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, who decides the outcome of a case, the mediator is there to help you and the other side reach an agreement that is acceptable to you both. The mediator does not decide who is right or wrong or force you to reach an agreement. In mediation, you are in control, and can talk about what matters most to you.

If you reach an agreement in mediation, your agreement will be written down and presented to a judge. If the judge approves it, the agreement will become a court order. 

If you do not reach an agreement, then the case may be scheduled for a court hearing. The conversation you had in mediation is confidential, and so, cannot be brought up during your court hearings.

If you are interested in mediation, click your case type in the navigation bar for information on cost and how to start the process.

In NCE, a sitting or retired judge or marital master (called an “Evaluator”) will help you and the other side discuss the areas of disagreement in your case. Then, the Evaluator will share an opinion about what a judge might decide about those areas of disagreement if the case went to trial. In NCE, you have the opportunity to come to an agreement on all, some, or none of the issues. If you come to an agreement, you will sign the agreement and it will be submitted to the judge hearing your case for review and approval. Divorce/parenting NCE and trusts and estates NCE are available after a case has gone through mediation.

In arbitration, you and the other party will present your evidence in front of a neutral arbitrator. The arbitrator will then announce a decision. Arbitration is different from mediation because the neutral arbitrator has the authority to make a decision about the dispute. Arbitration is different from trial because the arbitrator is not a judicial officer, and is usually faster and more informal than trial. Civil Superior Court cases can request either pre-filing arbitration or post-filing arbitration.