What is mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) where a neutral mediator facilitates a conversation and problem-solving process between people in conflict.
The mediator assists the parties in identifying underlying needs and interests and helps the participants identify options for resolution. Mediation provides an opportunity for individuals to discuss their concerns and enables them to reach an agreement on their own terms.
How do I arrange a mediation or get more information?
Complete our form to request a mediation, find out if mediation is for you, or place further inquiries to the University of Maryland Francis King Carey Mediation Clinic. You may also contact the Mediation Clinic directly at 410-706-4272, or by emailing cdrum@law.umaryland.edu.
Why should I consider mediation?
There are many benefits to engaging in mediation at any point in a conflict, even if litigation is involved.
- You Decide. Mediation gives participants the ability to reach a resolution on their own terms.
- Time. Address your conflict early with mediation. If you have a pending court case, you can avoid lengthy court processes by resolving your dispute in mediation.
- Free. Litigation can be costly. Save money through mediation. The Mediation Clinic offers mediation services at no charge.
- Confidential. Mediation is private. All mediation participants sign an agreement to mediate including confidentiality provisions.
- Lose nothing. You can still pursue other avenues of resolution if no agreement is reached. By agreeing to mediation, the participants do not give up their legal rights.
- Satisfaction. Most people who use mediation are satisfied with the process, gain a greater understanding of the situation and others involved, and reach some type of agreement.
Is my dispute appropriate for mediation?
Almost any situation is appropriate for mediation. Mediation is often used for contract disputes, landlord-tenant situations, debt collection disputes, and workplace disputes. Mediation can be helpful even if you have already attempted to resolve the situation on your own.
Trained mediators in the Mediation Clinic will help you determine if mediation is the appropriate process for your situation.
Are you a University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) employee?
The University of Maryland, Baltimore’s Workplace Mediation Service (WMS) serves as a resource for employees to use mediation to address workplace conflicts.
Are you a University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law student interested in Mediation?
Students at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law can enroll in the Mediation Theory and Practice Seminar and the Mediation Theory and Practice Clinic.