Colorado Mediation Services, LLC


Managing Conflict through Communication

                                     

Gregg Fisher  Ph.  970-485-5444
Vice president -Mediation Association of Colorado (theMAC)
Chair of theMAC  membership committee

Wendy Ober  Ph.   303-324-7539

 

Email:  ColoradoMediators@comcast.net



Why Mediation

Why Mediation?
  • The definition of mediation as defined under the Colorado Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators is: "[T]he process in which an independent, impartial, trained, neutral third party, or mediator, facilitates the resolution of a dispute by assisting parties in reaching a voluntary agreement. A mediator facilitates communication, promotes understanding, focuses the parties on their interests, and assists them in developing options to make informed decisions. A mediator does not have authority to make decisions for or impose a settlement on the parties."

 

It is important to keep in mind that any mediator should be impartial and intent on keeping the discussion focused on the issueWe at CMS believe that we offer the highest quality of service available in Colorado; however, before you choose any mediator please check out the Colorado mediator's code of conduct link shown on this page.  It will provide you with valuable information to assist you in selecting a mediator that will meet you needs.
  • The process of mediation, unlike a civil trial or arbitration proceedings, places the power to settle a disputed issue in the control of the principals not a judge, jury, or third party arbitrator.  With the assistance of an experienced CMS Mediator who will facilitate the discussion, the Parties will strive to craft a settlement satisfactory to all involved. 
  • The Mediators associated with Colorado Mediation Services (CMS) offer a  practical and confidential approach to your mediation.  We recognize that a certain degree of conflict exists in any case brought to mediation.  This is true whether submitted by mutual voluntary request or mandated by court order. 
  • We will strive to create a neutral environment that is conducive to finding a fair and amicable solution.

 Mediation is non-binding until the parties agree and reduce the terms and conditions to writing.  Nothing discussed in the mediation session can be used by either party against the other in a court proceeding absent an approved agreement.

 Prior to signing any agreement, the parties are encouraged to have the document reviewed by their attorney.

With the assistance of the Mediator, the parties shall establish a basic set of ground rules that shall serve as the framework for the mediation session.   
  • The parties agree to treat each other with respect.
  • The parties shall focus on the issues and avoid personal attacks or accusations.
  • A framework of confidentiality shall be established and agreed to prior to the commencement of the session.
  • Listen without interrupting
  • Bring documentation
  • In some cases you may wish to consult with an attorney.  The link provided below offers assistance in obtaining an attorney if you do not already have one.
 
Co-mediation:
Co-mediation is a process in which two mediators work in tandem with the parties on a particular issue.  In this case the mediators will each bring their own experience and expertise to bear on the issues.  In the event the Mediators at Colorado Mediation Services determines that co-mediation is appropriate, the parties will not be charged any additional fees.  The reason for this is that we fully believe in the mediation process and feel that by not charging additional fees, we are able to present the highest quality product at a reasonable price.

Whether you choose a Mediator from CMS or some other source, please take the time to review the code of conduct for Mediators link below: