Question 1

How Do I Start Mediation?

Accepted Answer

Call one of our offices (Longview at 360-232-8622 or Centralia at 360-623-8061) and one of our staff will conduct a brief intake over the phone and open a case for the parents. Only one party needs to call. We will inform them of the next steps in the process and answer any specific questions they have. Our office will then attempt to contact the second party.

Question 2

How Much Does Mediation Cost?

Accepted Answer

The standard cost for mediation services through our center is $500 per case which covers up to two 2-hour sessions. The cost is usually split 50/50 by both parties, and court orders can stipulate who is responsible. One client can pay the whole amount if they are willing.

Question 3

Is financial assistance available?

Accepted Answer

YES. We provide every client with a 1-page application for a reduction in fees, which follows the current Federal Poverty Level guidelines. By Washington State Law, mediation services must be offered at a reduced rate, based on ability to pay, including waiving the cost entirely if the client has no income. We will never turn someone away based on financial need.

Question 4

What if the other party doesn't want to mediate?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is a voluntary process, with a few County-specific exceptions. If we are unable to reach one of the parties after 7-10 days of daily attempts using all the contact information provided, we will send a letter to both parties notifying them that we are closing the case due to the lack of communication. The letter will indicate which party was unresponsive. Cases closed in this way are always able to be re-opened at a later time.

Question 5

Can my attorney come to my mediation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. By law Clients are allowed to bring someone with them, but self-determination by the client is a requirement of successful mediation. This person must sign the "agreement to mediate", acknowledging they are aware of the confidentiality and civility required during the sessions. We encourage clients to speak for themselves during negotiations and request a break from the main session if they need to consult with an advisor. Clients may also make phone calls during break time.

Question 6

What happens during the mediation?

Accepted Answer

The parties will meet with two mediators who will review the expectations of civil behavior and explain the structure of the specific type of mediation to take place. Each party will be given the opportunity briefly discuss their goals for the session and what topics are important for them to discuss. After each party has spoken, the mediators will help create an agenda of the agreed upon items and then guide the parties in a discussion with each other. The mediators will work to keep the conversation productive, solution-based and future-focused.

Question 7

What happens if we don't reach an agreement?

Accepted Answer

At the conclusion of every mediation session, the mediation center staff will file a form called "Certificate of Completion".  If no agreement is reached during mediation sessions, you may certainly proceed to the local court system or retain the service of an attorney if you haven't already. You can resolve your case outside of mediation if the other party is willing to continue working on resolution.

Community Mediation Center

Peace Through Mediation

Our Services

Parenting Plans

Mediation of parenting plans ensure that both parents' perspectives are considered and have constructive dialogue. This process effectively balances diverse interests to create a fair and workable plan that prioritizes the well-being of the children.

90-Minute Conflict Workshop

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Landlord - Tenant

Whether your issues are unpaid rent, noise complaints or damages, we can help both parties come to a reasonable agreement with or without a written settlement as an outcome with a goal to bring peace to the neighborhood. In Cowlitz County, this service is free.

Parent-Teen Mediations

Workplace Conflicts

Division of Property

Mediation of property division involves a fair allocation of assets, ensuring that all parties' perspectives are considered and promoting constructive dialogue. This process effectively balances diverse interests to achieve equitable and amicable property distribution.

A Message From Our Director

Laura Hight- Executive Director

Laura Hight, Executive Director

73%

Settlement Rate

13

Certified Mediators

5000+

Cases

32

Years of Service

We Have Done 1300+ Mediations & More Are Underway

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Learn More About Mediation:

What does dispute resolution feel like?

Preparing for Resolution in Mediation

What can a mediator do for you?

Cowlitz County Landlords and Tenants

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Frequently asked questions

How Do I Start Mediation?

How Much Does Mediation Cost?

Is financial assistance available?

What if the other party doesn't want to mediate?

Can my attorney come to my mediation?

What happens during the mediation?

What happens if we don't reach an agreement?

More About Us

Lewis County

Cowlitz County

Community
Mediation Center