Mother with female child

Additional Resource Available to Parents of Children with Special Needs through Special Education Mediation Services

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Whether you’re a parent or an educator, your goal is to meet the emotional, physical, and educational needs of each student, and that requires good communication between everyone that’s involved. However, there are times when challenges will require additional support to help parents and schools find common ground to meet the educational needs of the student. When you need to resolve a dispute, manage complex meetings, or improve the relationship with the school team, the answer may just be special education mediation. 

Conflict Resolution Services provides Special Education mediation free of charge for Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Missaukee, and Wexford counties’ schools and residents through the Special Education Mediation Program. These services are federally funded through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and paid for by a grant from the Michigan Office of Special Education.

What are Special Education Mediation Services? 

Special Education Mediation Services (SEMS) are an effective way to help support cooperation and teamwork between those who are directly involved in the students’ education and well-being. The overall goal — to improve educational outcomes — involves using a neutral third-party, specially trained mediator to help parents and educators collaborate to find a mutually agreeable, beneficial solution. 

Mediation is non-confrontational and a way of working together to find a solution, rather than working against each other. Both sides have an opportunity to share their view on the situation, contribute ideas, and provide feedback in a confidential setting. Not only does this help to resolve issues quickly and avoid lengthy and costly court proceedings, but it keeps the focus on what’s important — positive outcomes for the child. 

Benefits of Special Education Mediation Services

When faced with a challenge regarding your child’s educational services and outcomes, special education mediation services can help in a variety of ways.

Resolve disagreements

Both educators and parents are busy and under a lot of pressure to handle a wide range of complex, often difficult special education issues, and it can understandably get emotional. A trained special education mediator can provide a safe, neutral environment to guide the conversation and ensure all parties have equal opportunity to express their point of view. They also keep everyone on topic, and help identify and evaluate options to resolve the dispute and create a legally enforceable agreement regarding the solution. 

Mediation results in a 70-80% agreement rate, and the speed of mediation as opposed to the courts means students benefit from those solutions in a more timely fashion without the constraints of state complaint and due process timelines. This means both more time and money can be spent on educating — which is the ultimate goal. 

Manage complex meetings

Planning the educational services for students often requires a variety of meetings, whether that’s about IEP, IFSP, BIP, MET, MDR or planning a conference. If any of the participants are uneasy about a meeting or the relationship between caregivers and educators is strained in any way, participants can request a neutral, third-party mediator to facilitate the meeting process. 

The facilitator can create an agenda based on the participant’s input, and they’re trained to keep the conversation on track and on topic, centered on the needs of the student, while helping to negotiate disagreements without taking sides. 

Training to improve communication and relationships

Mediation services can greatly help to improve communication between parents and educators, but it’s also important to learn collaborative communication and dispute resolution techniques so that all parties can more effectively make decisions going forward — and hopefully avoid future disagreements.

Skills like active listening, empathy, and framing issues in a neutral fashion can help to promote collaboration, but they’re not always the easiest skills to understand or implement. SEMS offers a variety of workshops that can be adapted to the unique needs of your situation, including: 

  • Dispute Resolution Options in Special Education 
  • Conflict Resolution and Communication in Special Education 
  • Discipline for Students with Disabilities 
  • Effective IEP Team Meeting Participation Techniques 
  • How to Develop Trusting Relationships Between Families and Schools 
  • How to Communicate with the Most Challenging Personalities 

SEMS provides the materials and trainers at no cost to organizations that work with special education students. The only thing the hosting organization has to do is arrange the location, promotion, registration, and provide refreshments. 

Interested in Special Education Mediation Services? 

The use of these no-cost services allows parents and educators to spend less time, energy, and money on resolving disagreements and more time focused on positive educational outcomes and the growth of the students. 

For more information, please call 833-KIDS 1ST or 833-543-7178 or visit mikids1st.org. Requests for services are processed through the SEMS central office with local service delivery coordinated by Conflict Resolution Services.

Resolve your family dispute online.

What is MI-Resolve Family?

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Whether it’s a conflict regarding schedule changes, transportation responsibilities, moving the child’s clothing or toys back and forth, or vacations and extracurricular activities, domestic disputes can be extremely stressful — and extremely expensive if they go to court. 

Parents want what’s best for their children, and often that’s working to provide a peaceful solution that not only resolves the current dispute, but also works to prevent any disputes in the future. 

That’s the goal behind MI-Resolve Family, the domestic version of the free online service MI-Resolve that allows people to resolve disputes online without going to court, or if a case is already filed in court, to resolve them before the trial date.

The MI-Resolve Family System is specifically designed to help families work together to create everything from new agreements regarding parenting time to revising current court-ordered plans and even creating news plans to make up for missed time — all through the help of a highly trained mediator. 

What is mediation?

Mediation is a faster and more affordable way to solve legal conflicts. Through the help of mediators trained through programs approved by the Michigan Supreme Court’s State Court Administrator, disputes can be settled outside of a courtroom and without standing in front of a judge. MI-Resolve is free to use and can be accessed 24/7/365, meaning that disputes can be resolved very quickly, often in a matter of days. 

It’s a confidential way for both sides to explain their point of view and hear the other person’s side of things. The mediator doesn’t decide who is right or wrong, but instead impartially helps those involved draft a mutually agreed-upon resolution that becomes a legally binding mediation agreement that the parties can sign online and submit to the court. Unlike in courts where someone “wins” and someone “loses,” mediation allows both parties involved to walk away with a solution in which both sides come out on top. 

How to use the MI-Resolve Family system

Whether you’ve been ordered to mediation or the Friend of the Court has suggested MI-Resolve Family as an option, the first thing that will happen is that your local CDRP center — like Conflict Resolution Services, for example — will reach out to you and review your unique case before deciding if MI-Resolve is the best option. If they feel it’s suitable to go to mediation, the staff of that center will invite both you and the other caregiver to meet with a trained mediator through a private online portal. 

After you receive your invitation to register on the system, the next steps include: 

  • Creating a username and password that allows you to access the system from your preferred online device, whether that’s a smartphone, tablet, or computer. 
  • Once logged in, you’ll be asked to answer a few questions.
  • If you have photos, schedules, and other documentation that supports your viewpoint and responds to the other party, it can all be uploaded through MI-Resolve.
  • After the other party logs into the system, you’ll be assigned a trained mediator and the conversation will begin. 
  • The mediator will help move the conversation smoothly along and identify ways to amicably resolve the dispute, taking an impartial view of both sides of the dispute.
  • If necessary, the mediator can also meet separately with each party in a private space.

All conversations held during mediation are confidential, and the only thing the court will be aware of is whether or not you participated and/or if the case reached a resolution. If/when you do agree on a particular resolution, an online agreement form is produced for both sides to sign, which then becomes a binding contract. At that point, other than ensuring that the proper forms are brought to court, more often than not you don’t need to appear in court for further events. 

We’re here to help families work together

By staying out of the courts and having your dispute heard through mediation, both parties have the opportunity to reach a more creative, cohesive solution and foster a more positive relationship going forward. Instead of a court deciding the outcome, both parties can offer their perspective and work to create a solution where everyone wins — especially the children involved. 

If your case hasn’t been ordered to mediation, but you’re interested in trying MI-Resolve for your dispute, reach out to Contact Conflict Resolution Services at 231-941-5835 or casemanager@crsmediationtc.org. We’re here to help. 

Volunteering at Michigan Community Dispute Resolution Centers

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The State of Michigan has for many years been a leader in the use of conciliation, mediation, and other forms of voluntary dispute resolution as an alternative to the judicial process. Among the most important steps implemented by the state to support the use of ADR is the Michigan legislature’s creation of the Community Dispute Resolution Program (CDRP)[1], under which the state authorized the creation of not-for-profit Community Dispute Resolution Centers (CDRCs). There are currently sixteen Centers across Michigan. These CDRCs help resolve community disputes and provide timely and low-cost ADR services to litigants and others who may not otherwise be able to afford such services. The CDRCs are partially funded by the Michigan Supreme Court Administrative Office of Dispute Resolution and rely heavily on the support of hundreds of volunteer mediators and facilitators across the state. The CDRCs provide critical ADR support to all Michigan Courts, resulting in the resolution of thousands of cases and other pre-litigation disputes that would otherwise require time-consuming and expensive trials to be resolved.[2]

In addition to their role to assist Michigan Courts in the early resolution of cases, the CDRCs also provide outstanding opportunities for professional development and service by Michigan lawyers whose practices include private ADR services, or those who simply wish to learn more about ADR for the benefit of their clients. Among the reasons to consider volunteering at your local CDRC are the following:

  • Experience. Many Michigan lawyers who complete civil, domestic, or other mediation training programs required to serve as mediators find that once they are certified as a mediator it can be difficult to obtain mediation assignments from their local courts. This is often due to the lack of experience that newly trained mediators have in mediating actual cases.

    The CDRCs offer excellent opportunities for lawyers seeking to build their mediation resumes. With the increasing numbers of cases referred to the CDRCs by our Courts, the centers are always looking for qualified mediators to handle cases, most of which are mediated in a few hours or less.    
  • Mentoring. Similar to the practice of law, mentoring is an important part of becoming a skilled mediator. The CDRCs are well-equipped to mentor mediators who volunteer at the Centers. These opportunities may include observing other mediators, co-mediating cases with more experienced mediators, and training opportunities offered by the Centers for their volunteers.
  • Pro Bono Obligations. The Michigan State Bar policy on pro bono legal services strongly encourages Michigan lawyers to contribute a minimum of 30 hours of no fee or reduced fee legal services to needy members of their communities.[1] The CDRCs offer Michigan lawyers with many opportunities to fulfill their pro bono obligations, by serving as mediators or facilitators for the Centers, by working as members of their Centers’ Boards of Directors, or even by making financial donations to the Centers as qualified not-for-profit service providers.
  • Exposure to Courts. The substantial majority of cases mediated through the CDRCs are cases assigned by Courts in each of the Centers’ geographic territories. If you are looking for opportunities to be recognized as a skilled and effective mediator by the Courts in your area, volunteering as a mediator at your local CDRC is a terrific way to do so.
  • Skills Development. Volunteers at CDRCs can gain skills such as active listening, negotiation, and problem-solving. These skills not only benefit them in their personal lives but also enhance their law practices, making them valuable assets for use with clients and in their firms. Utilizing these skills, volunteers become adept at fostering positive relationships, promoting collaboration, and finding beneficial solutions to cases and other disputes in which their clients are involved, thus enhancing their overall effectiveness and success as lawyers.

Want to Learn More About Mediating at a Community Dispute Resolution Center?

To learn more about mediation, and ADR services offered by the CDRCs, check out the videos at https://www.courts.michigan.gov/administration/offices/office-of-dispute-resolution/ODR_videos/.

Interested in Volunteering?

Volunteering at your local CDRC is quick and easy. A list of the CDRCs, along with links to each of their websites, a list of counties served by each Center, and the names and contact information for the Directors of each Center is available at the Michigan Community Mediation Association website (https://www.michiganmediates.org/mediation-centers/). If you are interested, give your local Center a call or send an email – you will find your Center ready to answer any questions you have about volunteering, and ready to make you a part of its team!

[1] Community Dispute Resolution Act, MCL Section 691.1551, et. seq.

[2] See, for example, the 2023 Annual Report of the Community Dispute Resolution Program, available at https://www.courts.michigan.gov/49c1a9/siteassets/reports/odr/2023_cdrp_annual_report.pdf.

[3] See the State Bar of Michigan Voluntary Pro Bono Standard, available at https://www.michbar.org/programs/atj/voluntarystds.

Why is my small claims case scheduled for mediation?

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Small claims mediation is a way for people to resolve a minor legal matter with the help of a neutral third party instead of taking their dispute to court. While you might be wondering why your small claims course is scheduled for mediation instead of being heard before a judge, there are a variety of reasons and benefits that can provide a satisfactory solution for all parties involved. 

What is small claims mediation? 

In the state of Michigan, the maximum you can collect through a judgment in the small claims division of the district court is $7,000. But as small claims courts continue to see a rapid increase in cases, many have instituted policies encouraging and sometimes ordering mediation to assist in the resolution of civil cases before being tried in the courts. Currently, Grand Traverse, Antrim, and Leelanau counties order all small claims cases to Conflict Resolution Services (CRS) for mediation prior to scheduling a hearing before a judge.

While mediation is less formal than a court trial, there is still a distinct process led by a highly-skilled CRS volunteer mediator. They use their State-approved training to guide the conversation, and both sides are encouraged to hear each other out and brainstorm creative solutions.

What are the benefits of mediation for small claims cases? 

The mediation process is a faster and more affordable option, as mediation settles matters within an average of 45 days, compared to 18 months for those that go through the courts.

More than 90% of all small claims are now completed without a court hearing, and more than 75% of the mediated small claims cases reach agreement.

Small claims mediation is beneficial when your dispute is with someone you want to keep good relations with, like a friend, neighbor, or customer. The mediator doesn’t act as a judge deciding who is right or wrong, but instead helps everyone draft a mutually-agreed-upon resolution in a process that’s completely confidential. Whereas one person must lose in the courts, mediation allows both parties involved to walk away with a win.

The process for small claims cases scheduled for mediation

This is the process for 85th District Court, which consists of Antrim, Grand Traverse, and Leelanau Counties. It only applies to small claims cases filed in one of these counties, but every small claims case filed in these counties follows this process.

1. The case is filed with the court clerk.

2. The clerk adds the case to the CRS mediation docket.

3. The defendant is served with the paperwork.

4. Five to ten days prior to the mediation date, CRS receives the docket, summons, and complaint for each case.

5. CRS sends the agreement to mediate to each party that we have an email address for. If we don’t have an email address, we attempt to contact via phone to obtain an email address. If we don’t have the email address after a couple of days, a printed copy of the agreement to mediate is sent to the party via U.S. mail.

6. At date/time specified, the small claims mediation session is held via Zoom.

Important facts about small claims mediation 

There are certain stipulations that are specific about small claims mediation that are important for all parties to be familiar with:

  • Every case ordered to mediation must be mediated before it goes before a judge.
  • If all parties participate in mediation but are unable to reach agreement, the case is then scheduled for a hearing before a judge.
  • If parties reach agreement during mediation, an agreement is drafted and electronically signed by the parties before mediation is concluded. The court requests that the plaintiff in the case use the terms of the agreement to complete a form DC85 and send it to the defendant for signature. Signing and sending this document will be included in the mediation agreement.
  • If the plaintiff does not appear for and participate in mediation, typically the judge will dismiss the case.
  • If the defendant does not appear for and participate in mediation, typically the judge will enter a default judgment in favor of the plaintiff.
  • There is no cost for participants to mediate a small claims case referred by the 86th district court.

Turn to Conflict Resolution Services

Whether your dispute is with a neighbor or former employee, our goal is to provide you with high-quality professional small claims mediation services. Our trained mediators work with both parties to foster calm, focused conversations that get to the core of the issue and keep you out of the courts. Using a variety of techniques and tactics tailored for your situation, we help find common ground and build a foundation for continued communication.

Contact Conflict Resolution Services at 231-941-5835 or casemanager@crsmediationtc.org.

How to Become a Mediator with Conflict Resolution Services

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Are you looking for a rewarding way to give back to your community? Conflict Resolution Services (CRS) is always on the lookout for passionate people who want to join us in helping others by becoming a mediator. 

A CRS mediator has a very critical role in resolving conflict between parties. They’re impartial volunteers with diverse backgrounds who have completed state-approved, intensive training. They act as a neutral third party to facilitate the conversation, encourage people to hear each other, and help participants brainstorm solutions.

Our mediators don’t make decisions or judgments, but rather ensure equality among disputants, generate movement when at an impasse, recognize and halt manipulation by those involved, and help both parties reach an agreement that is satisfactory to everyone. In fact, about 80% of all mediations end in an agreement, and the conversations during mediation often serve as a deterrent to future disputes between the participants. Unlike the courts where one person must lose, mediation is a “win/win” situation — thanks in large part to the dedication of our volunteers.

Mediator Training via Zoom

What are the benefits of being a volunteer mediator? 

Being a volunteer mediator has both personal and professional benefits. On a personal level, you get the intrinsic reward of knowing you’re helping those in your Michigan community by resolving their conflicts and relationships without the costs and stress of court. Plus, the skills you learn as a mediator can translate to your own personal life, and you might find you have more patience and are more willing to compromise with your friends and family. 

At the same time, you’re also building professional skills that can be the foundation for a successful career. In fact, 82% of hiring managers interviewed by researchers said they prefer applicants with volunteer experience and 92% say volunteer activities build leadership skills. Those skills include: 

  • Active listening
  • Adaptability
  • Communication
  • Conflict resolution
  • Empathy
  • Objectivity
  • Patience
  • Problem-solving
  • Tact
  • Trustworthiness

The process to become a volunteer mediator

Are you interested in becoming a CRS mediator? The first step is to complete the volunteer interest form on our website. Once that’s complete the Executive Director will personally reach out to you. They will give you more information about what volunteering with CRS looks like, what your personal background is, and where you’re most interested in volunteering your services. 

Paperwork and background checks

Once you and Brandie have had a chance to get to know each other and it sounds like a good fit, you’ll be sent the new volunteer paperwork. This will include our comprehensive volunteer handbook that will provide insight into our expectations, the mission behind the organization, and all the best practices and requirements expected from our volunteers.

The paperwork will also include a volunteer commitment form which confirms that you will volunteer as a mediator for CRS for two years in exchange for CRS paying for your training. 

Once that is signed and returned, you are asked to provide consent for CRS to perform a background check that’s mandatory before attending any training or mediating. This is required every three years, and failure to do so will result in the termination of your partnership with CRS. 

We’re committed to providing our clients with high-quality professional dispute resolution services, and that means we want the best people available for the job! 

Mediator training

With approval of the paperwork and background check, it’s time to move on to the training. CRS requires all mediators complete State-approved, 40- or 48-hour mediation training. We partner with centers across the state so training is available about monthly, and while you can choose which training you want to attend, please note that most training is only available during business hours. 

After formal training, depending on your education—for example, if you’re an attorney or social worker—you’ll have to either complete two or 18 mediation observations and then a mediation where an experienced mediator observes you leading.

After completion, you’re ready to mediate on your own! 

Continuous learning

To maintain active status with CRS, volunteers must mediate and/or facilitate a minimum of three cases per year and complete 8-hours of advanced mediation training every other year..  

Ready to take the next step? 

If you’re looking for a way to invest in your community — and your own personal and professional development — we would love to talk with you about how you can become a CRS volunteer. To take the first step, please fill out the interest form or reach out to us today. 

DIY Divorce Through Mediation

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No one gets married with the intent to eventually get divorced, but it happens. And it’s almost always both a difficult decision and a difficult process — especially if you and your spouse have fundamental issues that you can’t resolve on your own, like child custody, finances, and division of property. 

Fortunately, if both parties are open to an alternative solution, DIY divorce mediation can be an alternative that will cost you less time, less money, and less stress. 

What is Divorce Mediation? 

In divorce mediation, you and your spouse meet with a trained, impartial mediator to confidentially discuss and resolve the issues in your divorce. While the mediators don’t make decisions or offer legal advice, they’re trained to help both sides resolve the dispute in a mutually beneficial way. 

The benefits of divorce mediation include: 

Cost: Mediation is a much less expensive option. Going to court to settle your divorce can cost anywhere from an average of $11,300 to more than $20,000, with the average divorce attorney fees being a staggering $11,000.

Time: Whereas the average divorce settled in court can take between a year to more than 18 months, divorce mediation can be done on your schedule, and completed in an average of 45 days.

Settlements: Unlike in court where someone has to “lose”, 80% of divorce mediations end in an agreement, which is a win/win for both parties involved. 

Control: With mediation, the court won’t control the terms of your agreement. Instead you have the freedom to work together on a solution based on what both sides feel is fair. 

Communication: If you have children from the marriage, mediation can teach you skills to keep the lines of communication open and civil going forward. This helps avoid future conflicts and disruption to your children’s lives and routines. 

How to Prepare for DIY Divorce Mediation

Conflict Resolution Services will help prepare you for the mediation session by asking you to gather some items before the session, which can include:

  • A list of assets, debts, and marital property
  • Financial statements
  • Property statements
  • Key topics you want to ensure are covered in the session

What Will be Discussed in Divorce Mediation? 

While each case will have its own specific issues to be resolved, standard tenants for divorce mediation can include: 

  • Marital property division and debt allocation
  • Retirement account division
  • Spousal support
  • Child custody
  • Child support
  • Insurance coverage.
  • Future communication
  • Any issues unique to your situation

The Process for Divorce Mediation

Most divorce mediation sessions will follow the general mediation process you can read about here, but there are certain aspects that are included specifically for domestic relations mediation.

Before Mediation

Before the actual mediation session, you will be asked to provide a brief summary of the issues involved in your divorce. This information will be shared with your mediator so that they have any necessary background information about your marriage, your family, and the issues that you’re hoping to get resolved in your divorce. 

During Mediation

As mentioned, there will be aspects of the mediation process specific to your domestic situation. Both you and your spouse will have equal opportunity to give a brief overview of your side of the dispute. After you’ve both had your time, the mediator will ask any questions necessary to clarify certain points and issues brought up, and then summarize both sides to confirm everyone is on the same page. 

The next step will be to discuss the issues related to your divorce that are mentioned in the section above. What’s important to remember is that in order for mediation to be successful, both sides have to be open to listening to and trying to understand your spouse’s point of view. You don’t have to agree — you are getting divorced, after all — but you do have to be open to compromise so that both parties can come to a mutually beneficial resolution. 

The length of your mediation will depend largely on how long it takes to finish the negotiations between you and your spouse. If there are issues you aren’t able to resolve in mediation, you’ll either have to agree to address them at a later date or take them to court.

Completing the Agreement

When you finish negotiations, the mediator will write up an agreement that includes all the issues resolved during the mediation. Once it’s signed by you and your spouse, it becomes a legally binding agreement. However, you do still have to file the divorce paperwork with the court — your signed agreement will be a part of the final divorce order, and the terms of that agreement are enforceable by the courts. 

Are You Ready for Divorce Mediation? 

At Conflict Resolution Services, we know that divorce is a stressful event, and our mediators are extensively trained to work with both parties to foster calm, focused conversations that get to the core of the issue. We acknowledge that every situation is unique, and we have a variety of techniques and skills that can help both sides find common ground in a non-confrontational, balanced way that gives you a foundation for your future going forward. 

When you’re ready to take the next step, contact Conflict Resolution Services at 231-941-5835 or casemanager@crsmediationtc.org.

What to Expect from the Mediation Process

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When faced with a legal dispute, it can feel overwhelming to consider where to even start. The situation itself is already extremely stressful, not to mention the time and money that might have to be spent in the courts to even reach a settlement. 

But it doesn’t have to be that way thanks to the process of mediation. 

Use the mediation process to resolve your dispute.

What is mediation? 

Mediation is an alternative way to solve legal conflicts. Through the help of an impartial third person — a trained and experienced mediator — disputes can be settled outside of a courtroom and without standing in front of a judge. The mediation process is a faster and more affordable option, as mediation settles matters within an average of 45 days, compared to 18 months for those that go through the courts. Not only that, but mediation has a success rate of 70-80%.

What are the benefits of mediation?

Meditation is proactive, not reactive, in that everyone involved is working together to find a solution instead of working against each other in court. It can be done at a time that best fits your schedule, it’s completely confidential, and both sides have the opportunity to explain their own point of view — and also hear the other participant’s side. 

The mediator doesn’t act as a judge deciding who is right or wrong, but instead helps those involved draft a mutually-agreed-upon resolution that becomes a legally binding mediation agreement. Whereas one person must lose in the courts, mediation allows both parties involved to walk away with a win. 

What is the mediation process like? 

Mediation is less formal than a court trial, but there is still a distinct process led by a highly skilled Conflict Resolution Service (CRS) volunteer mediator. They use their State-approved training to guide the conversation and encourage both sides to truly hear each other and brainstorm creative solutions.

What can you expect from the CRS mediation process? 

Initiating mediation

If you’ve made the decision to pursue mediation to resolve your dispute, first call us or complete the mediation request form and provide us with some basic information. Since mediation is voluntary when not ordered by a court, both parties have to agree to the process, so we’ll reach out to the opposing party and propose it as a solution. 

If it’s a court-ordered case, both parties must participate or risk being found in contempt of court, but we still initiate the same process as above. 

Mediator introduction

When you arrive, the mediator(s) will introduce themselves and explain their role. All CRS mediators are impartial volunteers with diverse backgrounds, and have passed a certification program that includes an intense State-approved, 40- or 48-hour mediation training; observation/co-mediation time; and regular participation at in-service training sessions to ensure they’re on top of the most effective tactics and techniques. 

Explanation of the process

The mediator will then explain the goals and ground rules, including the fact that you’re there to work cooperatively toward a settlement that satisfies all parties involved. They will also explain what to expect during the process, and then review the “Agreement to Mediate” form.

Both sides have their voices heard

Each party will be given time to explain the matter being mediated and share their concerns. This is the time to let the other party know the consequences they’ve experienced due to the dispute at hand. The mediator will ensure that neither party is interrupted, gently guiding the conversation in an impartial way that ensures both sides have time to make their voices heard.

Clarifications and solutions

The mediator will then summarize and clarify the issues they hear from each party, and then encourage both sides to further define any questions or issues, meeting with each party separately if needed. At that point, everyone involved is encouraged to work together to reach a solution and resolve the dispute. 

Signing of the agreement

When an agreement is reached, the terms of the agreement will be written down and signed by all parties. The signed agreement acts as a contract that is enforceable by the courts.

Ready to resolve your dispute with mediation? 

At Conflict Resolution Services, our goal is to provide you with high-quality professional dispute resolution services. Our trained mediators work with both parties to foster calm, focused conversations that get to the core of the issue. Using a variety of techniques and tactics tailored for your situation, we help find common ground and build a foundation for continued communication.

Whether it’s a simple matter or a complex multi-party issue — civil, real estate, agricultural, family, or work — our team of mediators, arbitrators, facilitators, and trainers can provide you not only the expert services that you need, but the peace of mind that you deserve. 

Contact Conflict Resolution Services at 231-941-5835 or casemanager@crsmediationtc.org.

Want to Make a Difference in Your Community? Become a Volunteer Mediator

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LANSING, MI, August 17, 2022 – Based on the growing need for—and success of—dispute resolution services across the state, the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) encourages interested individuals to apply by September 30 to become volunteer mediators through one of its 17 Community Dispute Resolution Program (CDRP) centers around Michigan, where they can help people (online and in person) navigate  a variety of disputes. Each year, nearly 30,000 Michigan citizens who might otherwise have court hearing or trial resolve their disputes through mediation services provided by these local centers, and people typically reach agreements about 80 percent of the time. Cases frequently brought to the centers involve landlord-tenant disputes, contract disputes, family and domestic relations cases, money owed, divorce, and child custody.

Volunteer community mediators are typically individuals who wish to make a difference in their community, have the time to commit to give back, and an interest in conflict resolution. They do not take sides, they do not tell people how strong or weak their case is, and they do not provide legal advice. Mediators are trained to help the parties themselves come up with a solution they can live with.

To provide services as a volunteer mediator, individuals must complete either a 40-hour General Civil Mediation (Michigan Court Rule 2.411) or 48-hour Domestic Relations Mediation (Michigan Court Rule 3.216) training approved by the State Court Administrator, observe at least two mediations conducted by an approved mediator, and conduct at least one mediation to conclusion under the supervision of an approved mediator. Each CDRP center determines its own training and volunteer needs for its service area, so anyone interested in applying should reach out to their local CDRP center for more information about their application process, training opportunities, and possible fees.

More about mediation

Mediation can be conducted in person or virtually through synchronous sessions using videoconferencing or teleconferencing, and the MI-Resolve platform which allows parties to asynchronously, 24/7, negotiate resolutions using smartphones, tablets or personal computers.  MI-Resolve is the nation’s first statewide online dispute resolution platform. A recent independent evaluation shows the effectiveness of virtual dispute resolution using Zoom and SCAO’s MI-Resolve, showing that both were effective and rated highly by users.

General benefits of mediation:

  • Mediation is flexible
  • Participants can control the outcome
  • Mediation is forward-looking
  • Mediation can preserve relationships
  • Mediation is creative
  • Mediation is confidential
  • Mediation is effective

Contact Conflict Resolution Services at 231-941-5835 or execdir@crsmediationtc.org.

Conflict Resolution Services Offers Mediation Services to Local Individuals with Disputes with Community Mental Health

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Michigan Behavioral Health Mediation Services logoConflict Resolution Services (CRS) now offers local mediation services to resolve disputes related to behavioral health services provided by Community Mental Health Services Programs (CMHSP) and their contract providers. CRS has been subcontracted for services by Oakland Mediation Center who is the fiduciary of the grant.

MDHHS Behavioral Health and Developmental Disability Administration and MDHHS Office of Recipient Rights have partnered with community and advocacy partners across the state of Michigan to ensure that all people receiving publicly funded behavioral health services in Michigan have access to an independent mediation process to resolve concerns about their services and treatment. CRS has been subcontracted for services by Oakland Mediation Center who is the fiduciary of the grant. CRS, based in Traverse City, will be providing services to Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Missaukee, and Wexford Counties.

“The use of mediation has a proven record of successful outcomes in resolving disputes and allows the patient to be an active participant,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “It is exciting that we are able to provide mediation services to resolve complex behavioral health treatment needs in a meaningful way by bringing all parties to the table.”

All CRS volunteer mediators have a minimum of 40 hours of state training on mediation. Volunteer mediators for this program have completed an additional 6 hours of training specifically focused on behavioral health mediation.

Currently, the CMHSP system serves more than 230,000 Michigan residents and the CMHSP Customer Services and Recipient Rights Departments receive a variety of inquiries and questions related to treatment planning and behavioral health services.

CRS is one of 17 Community Dispute Resolution Centers in Michigan. The organization was formed in 1990 to promote peace and civility in the local community. Today the organization provides low- and no-cost mediation services to hundreds of individuals each year through state-trained volunteer mediators .

Clients of Community Mental Health can request a mediation by calling 1-844-3-MEDIATE or emailing at behavioralhealth@mediation-omc.org.

 

 

 

Michigan Community Mediation Association Launches Michigan Agricultural Mediation Program

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LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Community Mediation Association (MCMA) has been awarded the Michigan Agricultural Mediation Program (MAMP) by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This program offers free mediation services to Michigan farmers to resolve their disputes outside of court. Farmers’ disputes covered by this grant can range from contract issues, estate and probate complications, adverse determinations by the USDA, bankruptcy, and any other conflict they may face concerning their farm.

“Our association is honored to have been awarded this grant to provide a vital alternative to resolving disputes for our farmers,” said Gabriella Reihanian Havlicek, Executive Director of MCMA. “We will be working with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, industry stakeholders, and local leaders to ensure every farmer knows this program is available to them for free to resolve their conflicts.”

MCMA is an advocacy, not-for-profit association for the 17 Community Dispute Resolution Program (CDRP) mediation centers across the state of Michigan that are partially funded by the Michigan Supreme Court State Court Administrative Office (SCAO). MCMA’s mission is to help advocate for the 17 CDRP and educate Michigan residents on the importance of mediation and restorative practices.

“Michigan’s farmers work to feed our communities and families 24/7, 365 days a year and mediation provides an avenue for them to be an integral part of the conflict resolution process. MDARD is proud to support MCMA,” said Gary McDowell, MDARD Director. “I encourage farmers to look into mediation as a viable option for resolving conflict.”

Mediation is a confidential process where disputing parties will discuss their issues with a neutral third party, the mediator, who will help them come to a resolution.

“Farmers already have heavy issues to navigate on a daily basis,” said Kelly Turner, CEO of Potato Growers of Michigan. “Whether it’s a supply chain shortage, finding workers, or navigating continually changing weather conditions. What they don’t need is to have extra legal issues hanging over their head for years to come. Now they can contact MCMA and request a free mediation to resolve any dispute they may be facing.”

Buddy Sebastian, President of Michigan Ground Water Association, echoed these sentiments by sharing, “We at Michigan Ground Water Association are excited to be partnering with MCMA and the 17 Community Dispute Resolution Program mediation centers. The services they provide to our residents and now our farmers allow Michiganders the opportunity to resolve disputes in a free and faster way.”

The 17 CDRP mediation centers are local nonprofits that offer mediation and restorative practice services. Their volunteer mediators are trained in the use of the facilitative model. This will ensure that all participants’ voices are heard and that the disputing parties are the ones making the agreement. Not the mediators.

CDRP mediators are required to complete 40 hours of SCAO-approved General Civil training or 48 hours of SCAO-approved Domestic training, practical experience supervised by seasoned mediators, and continuing education. To mediate agricultural cases the mediators will also be required to participate in 20 additional hours of advanced training every two years.

“Our mediators are highly skilled and trained on how to best serve their community members facing conflict in a respectful, professional manner,” said Shannon Taylor, Executive Director of Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress (UPCAP) Conflict Resolution Program and MCMA’s Training Committee Chairwoman. “I am certain they will bring this same level of expertise to the Michigan Agricultural Mediation Program and to our farmers.”

Farmers that wish to request a mediation may contact MCMA at www.micommunitymediation.org, via email micommunitymediationassoc@gmail.com, or by calling 800-616-7863.