Our Neighborhood Mediation Program
Who are the Community Boards Mediators?
Our mediators are trained and highly qualified volunteer Community Mediators, who donate their time and skills to help people like yourself find solutions to shared problems.
What happens after I contact Community Boards for mediation?
Every mediation begins with a confidential conversation. When you contact Community Boards, one of our trained staff members will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help determine whether mediation is the right option for your situation.
If mediation is appropriate, we’ll explain the process, gather some basic information about the dispute, and discuss your goals. We also offer conflict coaching before mediation to help participants clarify issues, strengthen communication, and prepare for a productive conversation.
With your permission, we’ll contact the other person or parties involved to explain the mediation process, answer their questions, and invite them to participate. Depending on the circumstances, we may reach out by phone, email, U.S. mail, or a combination of these methods. We give the other party time to consider the invitation and, when appropriate, follow up to answer additional questions and determine whether they would like to participate. If, after reasonable outreach efforts, we are unable to reach the other party or they choose not to participate, we will close the case and discuss other options with you, including conflict coaching, referrals, or other appropriate resources.
Before the mediation session, our staff or mediators may speak separately with each participant to answer questions, identify concerns, and help everyone prepare for a productive conversation. These pre-mediation discussions are an important part of the process and, under California law, are generally confidential.
Community Boards mediators are neutral facilitators. They do not take sides, determine who is right or wrong, or make decisions for participants. Instead, they help people communicate more effectively, better understand one another’s perspectives, explore options, and work toward their own mutually acceptable solutions.
How long does it take to schedule a mediation?
It can take about 10-15 business days from opening a case to the actual mediation.
How long are the mediations?
We ask people to schedule three hours for their mediation.
Where are the mediations held?
Mediations can be held at the Community Boards office in Opera Plaza or online via Zoom. We can make special arrangements on an as-needed basis.
How much does a mediation cost?
We charge a $50-$100 case opening fee for our neighborhood mediations, which is sliding scale or waived if you are unable to pay. The mediation itself is free-of-charge. We do ask for donations so we can continue to help others.
What information do you need about the other party?
We will ask for as much contact information as you have about the other person(s): name, mailing address, telephone number, email. The more contact information we have, the easier and faster it is to schedule your mediation.
Are the mediations confidential?
California law provides for confidentiality in the mediation process with regard to legal proceedings, with some exceptions. Parties to the mediation can also agree to additional matters they wish to remain confidential or private.
Can I bring someone with me? Do I need a lawyer?
Since our mediations are not legal proceedings, there is no need for evidence, testimony, witnesses or lawyers. You can bring someone with you, as long as all parties agree to it before the mediation.
I know the other person would never want to mediate. What can Community Boards do?
We ask people to be open-minded and not assume the other person is unwilling to mediate without first being invited. Remember, this is a voluntary process. We have a good success rate bringing people together, even in situations with a lot of anger and hostility. We work hard to make all mediations safe and respectful.
What if I mediate and things don’t work out later, can I still take legal action?
You lose no legal rights by attempting mediation, or if the terms in your final agreement are not fulfilled by the other party. You can pursue legal remedies. You may also try to mediate the problem a second time with Community Boards.
What is conflict coaching?
Conflict coaching is a confidential, one-on-one conversation with a trained Community Boards conflict coach. It helps you think through a conflict, clarify your goals, improve communication, and develop strategies for moving forward—whether you’re preparing for mediation or another difficult conversation.
Conflict coaching can help you:
- Better understand the conflict and the perspectives involved.
- Clarify your goals and desired outcomes.
- Develop communication strategies.
- Prepare for mediation or another important conversation.
- Explore constructive options for moving forward.
Conflict coaching is available before mediation and can also be helpful if mediation isn’t appropriate or the other person chooses not to participate. Like mediation, conflict coaching is confidential. Our coaches do not take sides, provide legal advice, or tell you what to do. Instead, they help you explore your options, build confidence, and develop practical strategies for addressing conflict constructively.