mediation image  MEDIATION


What is mediation?  Mediation is one of the methods of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) available to parties. Unlike arbitration, which is another ADR process and somewhat similar to trial, mediation does not involve decision making by the neutral third party.  Instead, the parties discuss their dispute with the help of a trained and impartial third party who assists them in reaching a settlement.  It is a purely voluntary process. 

The Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) offers mediation as a service to the public.  OCP investigators can use mediation to resolve consumer-merchant disputes whether filed with our office or if pending in Court.  The OCP has also announced a free mediation service for business-to-business disputes.