In court, you do not negotiate and you do not decide what happens to your case. The judge, in accordance with the law and the strict rules of the court, makes a decision.
In mediation, you and the other people involved negotiate a solution to the conflict
The mediation process is explained in detail by the NJ Courts website.
Only one person may speak at a time. Each person will be given a change to give their explanation of what has happened without interruption. If you feel the need to interrupt while the other person is talking, simply write your thoughts down on the paper provided and you will be given a chance to speak later. The use of name calling, profanity, or threats is absolutely prohibited.
All things said during the mediation session are confidential. The mediator and the people involved may not discuss the details of the mediation session with others.
The mediator may need to speak with each person separately. These meeting may be helpful in attempting to solve the problems that you and the other people are facing. Anything said during this private meeting or caucus is confidential unless you agree that the information may be shared with the other party.
If There Is No Agreement
If the cases was court referred, the mediator will return it to the court for further formal proceedings.
If you have not gone to court, you may wish to file a complaint with the Court Administrator. The mediator can answer your questions about the next step.
If An Agreement Was Reached But Is Broken
If your case was court referred, you may notify the court administrator to determine what further action should be taken.
If you have not gone to court, you may file a complaint with the court administrator
COMPLEMENTARY DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROGRAM
COURT ADMINISTRATION
HUNTERDON CO. ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
73 MAIN STREET
FLEMINGTON, NEW JERSEY 08822
908-788-1876
908-231-7623
Community Dispute Resolution Panel meets the first Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm