Mediation/Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

The Mediation/ADR effort is a voluntary process designed to facilitate case closure by bringing the parties in dispute together and reaching a mutually acceptable solution. An impartial mediator who is trained to help people discuss their differences facilitates negotiations between the two parties. It precludes the investigation process and usually results in both Respondent and Complainant coming away with a "win-win" solution to the problem.

Benefits of Mediation

One of the greatest benefits of mediation is that it allows people to resolve the charge in a friendly way and in ways that meet their own unique needs. Also, a charge can be resolved faster through mediation. While it takes less than 3 months on average to resolve a charge through mediation, it can take 6 months or longer for a charge to be investigated. Mediation is fair, efficient and can help the parties avoid a lengthy investigation and litigation.

Who Should Attend the Mediation

All parties to the charge should attend the mediation session. If you are representing the employer, you should be familiar with the facts of the charge and have the authority to settle the charge on behalf of the employer. Although you don’t have to bring an attorney with you to the mediation, either party may choose to do so. The mediator will decide what role the attorney will play during the mediation. 

Duration and Cost of Mediation

A mediation session usually lasts from 3 to 4 hours, although the time can vary depending on how complicated the case is. There is no charge to either party to attend the mediation.

Learn More About Mediation

To learn more about mediation, contact us at  (803) 737-7821, 711 (Relay) or (803) 737-7830, 711 (Relay).