2015-04-08 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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1.1t a to a. V La Y at,GA for Anoka County Creating Peaceful Solutions The Mediation Process • Opening Statement: upon arrival, the two neutral mediators will introduce themselves and go over the mediation process. Everyone will be seated around a table in a casual atmosphere. • Agreement to Mediate Document:during the opening statement the mediators will read through this document. Upon agreement to meditate this document will be signed by everyone who is present in the room. Copies will be made and given to each party. This document discusses: o The purpose of mediation o The voluntary nature of mediation o The confidentiality of mediation ■ Everything that happens or is said during a mediation session is confidential. ■ A mediator cannot be subpoenaed or testify or produce records, notes, or a work product in any future legal proceedings. o The reporting requirements of a mediator ■ Mediators are required to report evidence of child abuse and/or abuse of a vulnerable adult and the mediation stops. o The neutral, facilitative role of the mediator ■ Mediators are not given details of the case prior to mediation ■ Mediators and are not responsible for settling problems, making suggestions or providing an appropriate outcome o The definition of a "Caucus" ■ During the mediation, any party or mediator may request to speak with another party or mediator privately. o The ground rules of the session ■ Mediators will establish ground rules for the mediation. o The expectations of the session ■ Parties may refuse to disclose information, but will not give false information. o The time limits ■ Mediations usually do not last longer than two hours. Parties are asked to notify mediators of time constraints. o The Mediation Settlement Agreement ■ The agreement is non-binding. Mediators cannot determine the legality of this agreement. • Parties Opening Statement: each party has an opportunity to explain their point of view and express their feelings without being interrupted. • Joint Discussion:The mediators will summarize the parties' opening statements.They may ask clarifying questions so the issues can be properly identified.The role of the mediator is to assist parties to facilitate a discussion and assist with communication in order to develop their own jointly acceptable solution. • Mediation Settlement Agreement: if parties are able to reach a solution the mediators will document it on this agreement form. Each party then signs the agreement.This is a good faith, non-binding agreement between the parties. We cannot legally comment on the Mediation Settlement Agreement, but encourage you to consult your attorney for information regarding its application within the legal process. o If the Mediation Settlement Agreement is signed,copies are given to the parties. o They are not shared with anyone else. • Regardless of the outcome, Mediation Services for Anoka County will shred mediation notes and close the file. • If mediation is needed in the future, please contact us. Thank you for considering mediation!More information about the mediation process is available at the "Get Help" button at our website www.mediationservice.ore. If you have any questions, please call us at 763-422-8878. We look forward to helping you help yourself Mediation Services for Anoka County is a community-focused 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization. Contributions are very much appreciated and are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law 3200 Main Street,Suite 210 Coon Rapids,MN 55448 www.mediationservice.org office:763-422-88i9gfax.763-422-0808 infoamediationservlce.ory