MEDIATION PROGRAM

 

Mediation is a facilitated negotiation by and between or among the parties.   Agreement is often achieved because mediation enables the parties to communicate interests, perceptions, feelings and information directly to one another in a controlled environment.  This manner of communication reduces hostility and facilitates rational and meaningful discussion.  The parties have both the opportunity and the responsibility to pursue settlement of the case.  The Mediator will do whatever is necessary and proper to facilitate the parties in settling the case. 

 

While Judges and Arbitrators are limited to specific remedies in determining an appropriate outcome, the outcome of mediation is limited only by the nature of the dispute and the extent of the creativity of the parties.  Moreover, mediation gives the parties a sense of ownership in both the dispute and the resolution thereof.  

 

The cost of mediation is $300 per party and must be paid ten business days prior to the scheduled mediation.  The Mediation Program operates pursuant to Rule 27 of the Brown County Court of Common Pleas Local Rules (copy attached).  The Rules of the Court can be found on the Court’s website (www.browncountyohiocommonpleascourt.us).

If anyone participates in the Mediation Program, the Court is confident they will find the process to be an early, cost-effective resolution of their case.  If you have any questions regarding the mediation process, please contact the Civil Division of the Court at 937-378-3188.  Please understand that the employees of the Court are not permitted to provide legal advice. 

 

                                                                 Respectfully submitted,

                                                                            SCOTT T. GUSWEILER JUDGE