WHAT IS THE MEDIATOR'S ROLE?
The mediator helps people in the mediation communicate with each other. The mediator does not give advice, make suggestions, take sides or come up with solutions. If the people in the mediation do come up with an agreement, the mediator will help them write up the agreement.
WHO IS THE MEDIATOR?
CCR mediators are certified, trained volunteers from various professional backgrounds including attorneys, social workers, human resources specialists, therapists, teachers, managers, executives, ministers, doctors, consultants, police officers and students.
WHAT ARE THE QUALIFICATIONS OF CCR MEDIATORS?
CCR's mediators complete a 40-hour Mediation Skills Training. Mediators then prove their skills through hands-on simulations before serving clients.
CCR's mediators are volunteers who commit to at least 18 months. During those 18 months they go to workshops and trainings that add to their knowledge and skills.
CAN I SPEAK TO THE MEDIATOR BEFORE THE MEDIATION?
Most of CCR's mediators are volunteers. They are not CCR employees and do not work at the office. Mediators do not meet the people they are mediating with before the mediation session. It is important that the mediator not know anyone in the mediation to keep things fair. CCR case managers can answer any questions you have. They can be reached during regular office hours.
Anyone can bring a case to mediation!
Please contact our case management team at 312-922-6464 extension 222 or newcase@ccrchicago.org if you'd like to open a mediation case.
AVOIDING EVICTION
Reginald and Loretta were landlords. They took their tenant Jessica to court for an eviction and three months of back rent. The two stated that Jessica violated the lease by having dogs. Jessica argued they failed to make repairs or address rodents in the unit.
The case was referred to mediation with CCR. The mediator facilitated a conversation between the three. Reginald and Loretta agreed only to collect one month of back rent, as long as Jessica moved out at the end of the month.
They shook hands at the end of the mediation. All three were relieved that they could move on without returning to court.