Seals of the Court of Appeals and Superior Court
District of Columbia Courts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does it cost to use one of your programs?
The services of the Court’s mediation programs (part of the Multi-Door Dispute Resolution Division) are free to anyone who lives in the District of Columbia.
What if mediation doesn't work?

If you have already filed a case with the court, your case will continue to move forward with your scheduled court hearings. Your next court hearing could be a pretrial conference, a hearing or a trial. If you do not reach an agreement in mediation, the outcome of the mediation will not affect your case. The mediator cannot be called to testify in court. The mediator cannot tell anyone about the discussions you had during mediation. Additionally, the mediator destroys their notes at the end of your mediation.

Can I request an in-person mediation?

Yes, you may ask for an in-person mediation. All participants must agree to mediate in person. To make a request you must submit an Application to Appear In Person within 24 hours of receiving the mediation scheduling email sent by your case manager. The case manager will follow up with the requesting party(s) within 24 hours of the request.