What is Mediation?
The UPCAP Conflict Resolution Program is a non-profit organization, serving individuals, groups, and organizations in Delta, Menominee and Schoolcraft counties in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We provide mediation services, conflict resolution training, and promote mediation use in a wide variety of situations.
In mediation, disputing parties come together for a voluntary, private, face-to-face meeting with a specially trained, neutral third party or team (mediators) who help the disputants work out a solution to their problem.
Sessions are held in a neutral location usually with two mediators present. Most times the process takes 1-3 hours and is only one session long. The steps in the process are as follows:
- The mediator(s) give an opening statement explaining how the mediation process works and how it will be conducted.
- Each party is given the opportunity to explain the dispute from his/her point of view.
- Mediators help to define the issues or problems involved in the dispute.
- Possible solutions are explored to resolve the problem.
- When an agreement is reached between the parties, it is put into writing.
- Both parties sign the agreement and each receives a copy.
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