Mediation is a process that brings parties in dispute together with a neutral mediator to find a resolution that will work for all.
Mediators lead the parties through a four-phase process that allows them to fully understand each other's views and needs, and brainstorm for a resolution that satisfies all.
The Mediation process is controlled and respectful. Parties normally enter the process voluntarily. Agreements reached through mediation are always voluntary, and therefore have a good chance of being implemented successfully.
Privacy is protected. Mediation is future oriented, and seeks to restore, preserve, and enhance relationships.
Our community program provides low- or no-cost mediation for a wide range of family, neighborhood, landlord/tenant, consumer/merchant and small business problems that might otherwise destroy relationships or even end up in court.
Mediators are also available inside some small claims, civil harassment and unlawful detainer (eviction) courtrooms.
The Center provides services for parties required by the law, or a contract, to try mediation before resorting to litigation.
Employers can arrange for employees to resolve problems in a neutral environment.
Reconciliation services allow youths recommended by Probation to make things as right as possible, restoring both offenders and victims to productivity within our community.
Programs include communications and problem solving skills, mediation process and technique, managing personal stress productively to avoid problems and training & facilitation skills development.
Our trainers are professional, knowledgeable, energetic and positive.
Our interactive, skill oriented programs are appropriate for company in-service and continuing education in several professional fields.
Executive coaching is available.
The Center partners with various community agencies and the schools to provide training for families, students and school personnel.
We also work with local colleges and universities to provide internships and other opportunities for their students.
Programs can be customized to meet client needs and budgets.
The Center depends on volunteers to facilitate mediations. Volunteers serve on panels, in area courtrooms, or reconciling youthful offenders with their victims.
The Center also trains its own trainers and group facilitators. Volunteer speakers deliver the Center's Mediation Message program throughout the county.
The Center's Board of Directors is also made up of volunteers.
Finally, the Center uses volunteers to support general operations providing information and referrals by phone, general clerical and shopping/hospitality/janitorial.
The Center believes it can best serve the San Joaquin community by developing a volunteer base that reflects the diversity of our community.
We value all skills and seek to find a fit for every volunteer.
The Mediation Center of San Joaquin County is a not-for-profit organization funded by the county (under the Dispute Resolution Programs Act), income from training services, case development fees, and donations. Services are provided by trained neutrals.
The Center's services are available to the public with no regard to race, religious creed, color, national origin, physical handicap, medical condition, marital status, sex, sexual orientation or age.
