Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

About Mediation

  • Mediation is a confidential, voluntary process where a neutral third party — the mediator — helps two or more parties in a dispute communicate, understand each other's perspectives, and work toward a mutually acceptable resolution. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, a mediator does not decide the outcome. Instead, they facilitate a conversation that empowers the parties themselves to find a solution that works for everyone.

  • Court proceedings are adversarial, public, costly, and slow — often taking months or years to resolve. Mediation is private, faster, typically less expensive, and far less stressful. Most importantly, you retain control over the outcome. In court, a judge decides. In mediation, you and the other party decide together — which means any agreement reached is more likely to be honored long-term

  • The mediation process itself is not legally binding, but any agreement reached during mediation can be put into a written contract that is legally enforceable. Our mediators can guide you through what steps to take to formalize your agreement after the session.

  • Mediation can be used to resolve a wide range of disputes, including:

    • Business and commercial disagreements

    • Workplace and employment conflicts

    • Neighbor and community disputes

    • Landlord-tenant issues

    • Organizational and nonprofit conflicts

    • Family and co-parenting matters

    • Contractual disagreements

    If you're unsure whether your situation is suitable for mediation, contact us — we're happy to talk it through with you.

  • Yes. Everything discussed in mediation is confidential. Neither party can be compelled to disclose what was said during the mediation process in any subsequent legal proceeding. This confidentiality is one of the key advantages of mediation over litigation.

  • Mediation is voluntary, so yes — both parties need to agree to participate. However, many people who are initially reluctant find that when they understand the benefits (lower cost, faster resolution, more control), they're willing to try. We can help you draft an invitation to mediate if needed.

Our Process & Services

  • We are based in Washington DC and serve clients throughout the DC metropolitan area, including Maryland and Virginia. We also offer all of our services remotely, so you can work with us from anywhere.

  • Yes. All of our services — mediation, conflict coaching, and training — are available remotely via video conference. Remote mediation is just as effective as in-person, and often more convenient for all parties involved.

  • You can request a session directly through our website using the Schedule Now button, or contact us to discuss your situation first. We'll help you determine the right format and timeline for your needs.

  • Each mediation session lasts two hours. Complex cases may require multiple sessions. If you would like to schedule a follow-up, your mediator will schedule this with you directly.

  • Mediation is priced at $250 per party per two-hour session, plus a one-time, non-refundable administrative fee of $100 per party — a total of $350 per party. Costs may be shared equally between parties. We believe finances should not be a barrier to resolution, which is why we offer a below-market fee without compromising on quality.

  • We recommend uploading any relevant documents, correspondence, or records related to the dispute. More importantly, come prepared to listen as well as speak. The most successful mediations happen when both parties are genuinely open to understanding the other side. We'll send you a preparation guide before your session.

Mediation Training

  • Our training is designed for professionals seeking to become certified mediators, as well as for lawyers, HR professionals, managers, social workers, and community leaders who want to develop practical conflict resolution skills. No prior mediation experience is required.

  • Upon successful completion of our Mediation Skills Training & Certification program, participants receive a certificate of completion aligned with internationally recognized mediation standards. The program is designed to meet the requirements of many professional mediation panels and credentialing bodies. Contact us for details on specific credentialing requirements in your jurisdiction.

  • Our mediation skills training is 40 hours of structured instruction, including theory, guided simulations, exercises, and coaching. We also offer a Summer Intensive format (one week) and a Weekend Schedule option for working professionals who need more flexibility. Full course dates are listed on our Training page.

  • Yes. Our mediation training is delivered online, allowing participants from across the country and internationally to attend. The interactive format includes live sessions, group exercises, and individual coaching — not pre-recorded lectures.

  • Our programs combine theory, structured exercises, guided simulations, and coaching. You'll learn how to open a mediation session, manage conflict dynamics, guide parties toward agreement, and handle difficult situations — all through hands-on practice, not just lectures.

  • Visit our Training page to see current intake dates and registration links. Upcoming sessions include June, September, November, and a Summer Intensive in July.

Conflict Coaching

  • Conflict coaching is a one-on-one service where we work with an individual — not both parties — to help them understand their conflict, clarify their goals, and develop strategies for managing or resolving the situation. It's useful when the other party is unwilling to mediate, or when someone wants to prepare for a difficult conversation.

  • Conflict coaching is focused specifically on a current conflict and what you can do about it. It's forward-looking and practical — not a deep exploration of past experiences. Think of it as strategic coaching for navigating a specific difficult situation.

  • Yes. We work with organizations to build conflict competence across teams, improve communication, and reduce the cost and disruption of unresolved internal disputes. Contact us to discuss organizational packages.

  • Yes. While we are based in Washington DC and primarily serve the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, our remote services allow us to work with clients anywhere in the United States and internationally. Our mediation training is also open to participants nationwide and globally.

  • Mediation is widely used and recognized within the DC court system. Many DC Superior Court cases are referred to mediation as part of the court's dispute resolution programs. Agreements reached in mediation can be formalized as legally binding contracts or, in court-referred cases, may be incorporated into court orders. Our mediators are familiar with DC's legal and regulatory context.

Still Have Questions?

We'd love to hear from you. Contact us or schedule a free consultation and we'll answer any questions you have about working with DC Mediation Institute.