Alternative Dispute Resolution
Mediation
You have the option of conducting a remote mediation (i.e., via telephone or videoconference) prior to your hearing to try to settle your case. Mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral person works with the parties to try to find a solution that works for everyone. You are not required to reach an agreement, and it is entirely up to you whether to agree to any specific terms. For more information please call (408) 828-8547 or email at adr@scscourt.org.
About mediation
- The Court partners with highly trained, and experienced volunteer mediators to provide this free mediation opportunity.
- Mediators are completely neutral: they are not there to decide who is right or wrong, only to help you and the others on your case reach a settlement that works for everyone.
- Mediations are confidential: anything that is said in mediation cannot be used against you during your hearing if you do not settle your case in mediation. Any agreement you reach will not be made part of the public record, unless everyone agrees.
Benefits of Mediation
- If you settle, you can avoid having to come to Court for your hearing
- Mediation allows for more, possibly better options to resolve your case than a hearing and judgment
- If you are the plaintiff, it is much more likely that the defendant will voluntarily follow through with the terms of a settlement they agreed to than a Court order
- Because mediation is confidential you have the opportunity to hear the other person’s side, so if you don’t settle you can be better prepared for your hearing