What is Mediation and How Do I Prepare?

What is Mediation and How Do I Prepare?

Mediation is a voluntary, problem-solving process assisted by a neutral third party. The basic premise of mediation is that the parties involved in a dispute are best able to resolve the dispute. In addition, parties are generally more satisfied with, and have greater ownership in, solutions which they have a role in creating. Even if total resolution of a dispute is not accomplished through mediation, the process can assist parties to identify the underlying reasons for the dispute, narrow and clarify the issues, and discover areas of common ground where potential for agreement may exist.

Mediation is subject to the Colorado Dispute Resolution Act C.R.S., § 13-22-301, et seq.

How Do I Prepare?
 

Prepare a pre-conference statement (called a confidential settlement statement) 10 days before the scheduled mediation. 

The  pre-conference statement should include:

• A list of issues you want to resolve during mediation.
• Identify your needs and interest in relation to these issues.
• Write down or list your understanding of the needs and interests of other parties.
• Bring to the mediation session copies of any court orders, financial documents, and other information pertaining to the dispute. 

If child support is an issue, documentation of income and a completed Financial Affidavit will be needed by the mediator.
 

Reduced Fee Application Form with Instructions:  JDF211 (funds to assist with payment of mediation services)