The MCBA Conciliation Program provides you with the opportunity to resolve your issues in a private setting by a neutral (aka “conciliator”) who has extensive experience with your particular area of law. The conciliator is not a judge and, since they do not represent either party, they do not impart legal advice.
The purpose of conciliation is to assist you in your efforts to resolve any unsettled issues in your case. After the conciliation session, the conciliator will complete a report for the judge which sets forth the conciliator’s recommendations.
To participate in this program:
- An ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) Order to Conciliation is required. This can be provided by the Judge or, if not, may be requested at any time by filing a Motion to be assigned to the program. The parties then email a copy of the Order to [email protected].
- This program is extremely successful and the neutrals graciously donate their valuable time. There is no fee for the conciliation session itself however, there is a $150 per party fee which supports the administrative portion of the program. (Please use the PayPal/Credit Card payment link.)
- Once the fees have been received, a neutral will then be assigned.
- The parties and neutral work together to determine a convenient date for all to attend the conciliation.
- The conciliation may take place either in the neutral’s office or by Zoom.
- Prior to the conciliation, the neutral will review all documents relevant to the case.
- The neutral dedicate a reasonable amount of time (typically 2-3 hours) to resolve the issues.
- Although there is no charge for the conciliation, a mandatory, non-refundable $150 per party fee is required to help support its administration.
- Conciliations cannot be scheduled until the MCBA receives the fees.