About Mediation - Common Ground

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Mediation

Mediation is form of dispute resolution. It is a private, confidential, and voluntary conversation between you and the person with whom you are having a dispute.

Mediation is facilitated by a mediator, who is impartial and doesn’t know either of you. He or she helps you talk to each other in a safe and neutral setting. You both will have an opportunity to be heard without interruptions. No one will force you into an Agreement.

Agreements may be legally binding and enforceable in a court of law. Mediation is an appropriate alternative to the traditional methods of resolving everyday disputes. Mediation is not appropriate in situations involving child abuse or domestic violence.

You do not need a referral for mediation; contact us now to book your service!

What Issues Can Come to Mediation?

Almost any issue can be handled through mediation. You can view all the types of mediation we offer here. While Common Ground does not currently provide Divorce Mediation, we will be happy to refer you to a Divorce Mediation specialist in your area.

Please note that mediation is not recommended in situations involving domestic abuse or where there are allegations of child abuse and neglect.

Types of Mediation

Community Mediation

Custody and Visitation

Raise the Age

Persons in Need of Supervision (PINS) and PINS Diversion

Special Education

Elder Mediation

NYS Agricultural Mediation Program

Surrogates Court

Restorative Justice Practices

Circle Processes

How to Prepare for Mediation

The mediation you have scheduled is a unique opportunity for you and the other party to have a productive conversation, which can result in decisions that satisfy everyone. Mediation is a self-directed process and the content of your discussion, and any decisions or agreements you may reach, originate from each of you! Mediation is empowering, where everyone is heard and respected.

Mediation Tips

Separate the people from the issues so that you can concentrate on negotiating and solving the problems and avoid wasting time attempting to control each other.
Name-calling and insults are not helpful or productive. Be respectful. Be open. Be forward-thinking. Try to understand where the other party is coming from.

Be as honest as you can be with each other. Speak from your heart. Listen with your heart. Be honest about your needs, what you want and what concerns you most.

Focus on the future for solutions that satisfy the needs of everyone involved. Use your experience from the past to avoid what will not work for you and to create realistic solutions that will work for you. Look for plans that will benefit you both.
Keep the big picture in mind. There is time for everyone to be heard. Be as ready to listen as you are to speak.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visit this page to check out all of our frequently asked questions. If your question isn’t answered, you can contact us here.

Get Started Now

You can get started with us now by requesting mediation through your or your child’s attorney, the judge, or contacting us directly through the booking request form, by telephone or by email.

Tel: (518) 943-0523 

Text: (518) 943-0523

info@commongroundinc.org