Judge Childers offers mediation and arbitration services on a case-by-case basis. Mediation is a dispute resolution process, in which a neutral person facilitates negotiations between parties to help them resolve their dispute. The parties select the mediator and agree upon the ground rules for the mediation. The process is usually voluntary and the parties control the outcome.
Arbitration is an adjudicatory process that is used in place of litigation to resolve a dispute. The parties select an arbitrator who will hear evidence and render a decision in the case. Arbitrations proceed according to the arbitration rules selected by the parties. The rules of evidence are relaxed in an arbitration hearing. Most arbitrations are final and binding.
Mediation and arbitration can be schedule for a full day or, upon request by the parties, for a half day.