OCBA Mediation Service

 

OCBA Mediation Service provides an alternative method for effectively and efficiently resolving District Court general civil cases in Oakland County.

Mediation is a structured, interactive process where an impartial third party, known as a mediator, assists disputing parties in resolving conflicts through the use of specialized communication and negotiation techniques. The mediator facilitates dialogue, promotes understanding, and helps parties find mutually acceptable solutions, but does not impose a decision.
 

Benefits of Mediation

• Confidentiality: Mediation sessions are private and confidential, unlike court proceedings, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.
• Control: Parties retain control over the outcome, rather than having a decision imposed by a judge.
• Cost-Effective: Mediation is often less expensive than litigation, saving on legal fees and court costs.
• Time-Efficient: Mediations can be scheduled quickly and resolved faster than court cases, which can drag on for months or years.
• Preserves Relationships: The collaborative nature of mediation helps maintain or even improve relationships by fostering better communication and understanding.
• Flexibility: Solutions can be tailored to the specific needs and interests of the parties involved, offering more creative and flexible resolutions.

 

Why Choose OCBA Mediation Service

The Oakland County Bar Association (OCBA) Mediation Service offers a range of benefits that make it an excellent choice for those seeking to resolve disputes efficiently and amicably.

• Experienced Mediators: OCBA mediators are highly trained professionals with extensive experience in conflict resolution, ensuring high-quality mediation services.
• Cost Savings: Geared for District Court cases, the cost for OCBA Mediation Service is $125 per hour per party, well below the typical rate for an experienced attorney mediator. 
• Reputation and Trust: As a part of the reputable Oakland County Bar Association, the mediation service is trusted by the community and known for its professionalism and integrity.
• Accessibility: OCBA Mediation Service is easily accessible, offering both in person and Zoom sessions to accommodate the needs of all parties involved.
• Supportive Environment: The service provides a supportive and neutral environment, encouraging open communication and collaborative problem-solving.
• Focus on Satisfaction: The primary goal of OCBA Mediation Service is to achieve mutually satisfactory outcomes, prioritizing the needs and interests of all parties.

 

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE

After being ordered to mediation, parties with general civil cases in one of the Oakland County district courts can advise the court’s ADR alternative dispute resolution clerk that they would like to select OCBA Mediation Service to be their mediator. 

Parties who fail to select a mediator by the deadline may also be ordered to OCBA Mediation Service by the presiding judge.