MEDIATION is a process that allows individuals to voluntarily resolve disputes in a confidential, out-of-court procedure. In mediation, a neutral third party helps those in conflict define issues, explore solutions and reach practical, workable and mutually satisfactory agreements. Mediation seeks to prevent conflicts from escalating, saving everyone involved the time and expense of going to court. Mediation can help all parties involved get past their anger, frustration, guilt or “desire to punish”; clarify their underlying, bottom-line goals; see their “opponent’s” feelings, viewpoints and goals; cooperatively build a lasting, WIN/WIN voluntary solution; and create an atmosphere of on-going cooperation and efficiency. All mediations are handled promptly and confidentially.

In 1986, the Supreme Court of Oklahoma adopted Rules and Procedures for the Dispute Resolution Act, 12 O.S. 1801 et seq., by providing guidelines for the establishment of dispute resolution centers.  Cases resolved by mediation may involve money, property, business transactions, personal relationships, assault, harassment, animal disturbances, neighborhood disturbances or other matters. The disputes may be with mates, ex-mates, other family members, neighbors, landlords and tenants, consumers, or merchants.

Our mediators are community volunteers who have completed specialized training and are certified by the Administrative Directors of the Courts. Mediators assist both parties in negotiating and solving their own problems. Statistics have shown a consistently high rate of resolution of issues in cases proceeding to mediation.

People keep the agreements that they make themselves!

 

For more information, please contact:

Early Settlement-Norman

P. O. Box 370

Norman, Oklahoma 73070

405-217-7750