Community Mediation Center

Is community mediation free in Carroll County?

Yes, mediation services are offered at no cost to participants.

Is community mediation part of the court system in Carroll County?

Carroll County Community Mediation Center is not part of the court system. We are a completely separate non-profit entity. However, we often receive referrals for mediation for people who are involved with a court case or are under a court order to mediate.

What is the difference between mediation and counseling?

Mediation is not like counseling. Mediators are not therapists and do not provide an analysis or opinion of the situation or give suggestions about what people should try or do. Mediators are committed to participant self-determination, which includes giving participants the space to talk about whatever they want to discuss and make plans or agreements that are important to them.

Do mediators make decisions or give advice during mediation?

The mediators do not make any decisions, nor give opinions or advice; all decisions or solutions come from the participants. The mediator’s job is to be nonjudgmental, listen, ask questions for clarification, and facilitate the process to meet the needs and goals of the participants.

How do I request mediation services?

Participants can contact the CCCMC directly to request services. Staff will speak to them about their situation and, if mediation is appropriate, contact the other people involved in the conflict to discuss the option of mediation.

How can I refer someone to community mediation services?

Agencies, organizations and individuals may refer potential participants to mediation by contacting the CCCMC. Names and contact information for each person being referred must be provided.

Are mediation agreements binding?

Agreements made in mediation may be binding contracts. The mediation process provides an opportunity for participants to explore all possible options and choose the one(s) that work for everyone involved. Mediation is a completely voluntary process; all agreements reached come from the participants involved and no one is forced to agree to anything. Participants always have the opportunity to consider their agreement and review it with anyone they feel comfortable getting advice or input from before signing.

How do I know if a conflict is appropriate for mediation?

If you are unsure a situation is appropriate for mediation, give us a call or email us and a staff member can discuss the case with you to determine if it is suitable for mediation. A pre-mediation conversation is conducted with each potential mediation participant to determine if mediation is appropriate, explain the process, answer questions, and schedule the mediation if everyone agrees to move forward.

What information do referring agencies receive about mediation cases?

Referring agencies may receive status reports on mediations, which include scheduled mediation appointments, whether or not the mediation occurred, and whether or not an agreement is reached.

Who are the mediators at the Carroll County Community Mediation Center?

The Mediation Center provides professionally trained mediators and coaches who volunteer their time and represent the diversity of Carroll County with regard to age, race, gender, ethnicity, income, experiences, and education. All mediators and coaches have completed at least 50 hours of mediation training, an apprenticeship, and continuing education.