A: Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where a neutral, third-party mediator helps people in conflict communicate and negotiate in the hopes of reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, the mediator facilitates discussion but does not make decisions.

A: We help resolve a wide range of issues including family disagreements, landlord-tenant disputes, workplace conflicts, school discipline issues, neighbor disputes, and more.

A: Mediation agreements are not legally binding by default but can become binding if all parties choose to sign a written agreement and have it notarized or filed with a court.

A: Only the people directly involved in the conflict and one or two trained RSCCM mediators. Sessions are private and respectful.

A: The time varies depending on the issue, but most mediation sessions last 1–2 hours and can often be resolved in a single meeting.

A: Fees are on a sliding scale, based on case type, and are assessed at intake. Clients may be referred to private mediators/facilitators based on income/debt load assessments

A: Having a neutral facilitator often is the key to coming to an agreement, even for long-term conflicts.

Statistics compiled by the Community Dispute Resolution Program (headed by the Michigan Supreme Court) in 2023 indicate that 74% of the cases mediated were resolved.

A: Our mediators meet the requirements of either Court Rule 2.411 or Domestic Relations Court Rule 3.216, and are eligible for court appointment.

Transformative conference facilitators have been trained in alternative student discipline as developed by the International Institute for Restorative Practices (www.iirp.org).

A: To become a mediator through the Resolution Services Center of Central Michigan (RSCCM), you can participate in their State Court Administrative Office (SCAO)-approved training programs. These programs are designed to equip you with the necessary skills and credentials to serve as a mediator in Michigan.

Steps to Become a Mediator with RSCCM

1. Complete a 40-Hour General Civil Mediation Training RSCCM offers a comprehensive 40-hour General Civil Mediation Training. For instance, an upcoming session is scheduled for June 23–27, 2025, conducted via Zoom. This interactive training includes personal coaching, role-playing exercises, and instruction from experienced trainers.

2. Specialize with Additional Training (Optional) Depending on your interests, you may pursue specialized training in areas such as:

   1. Domestic Relations Mediation: Focuses on family-related disputes, including divorce and child custody.

   2. Restorative Justice Circles: Emphasizes healing and community restoration.

   3. Special Education Mediation: Addresses disputes between families and schools regarding special education services.

3. Gain Practical Experience After completing the training, gaining practical experience is crucial. RSCCM may offer opportunities to observe or co-mediate sessions, helping you build confidence and fulfill any additional requirements for court-approved mediators.

4. Stay Updated with Continuing Education To maintain your mediator status, RSCCM provides periodic update trainings. For example, an 8-hour Mediator Update Training is scheduled for June 13, 2025, via Zoom.

For more information or to register for training, visit RSCCM's Trainings Page or contact us directly at mediate@rsccm.org or (517) 485-2274.