Probate Mediation Program
The Probate Mediation Program handles disputes over the estates of those who have passed away, trusts, guardianships of minors, and guardianships and conservatorships of incapacitated adults. Guardians are responsible for the physical well-being of an incapacitated adult; conservators are responsible for ensuring the best use of their finances.
Probate matters are referred to mediation by order of the judge to whom the case is assigned. A trained mediator assists the parties and their attorneys to communicate their positions and discuss their issues, and to explore possible settlement options that will satisfy the interests of all concerned. The mediator does not give an evaluation or opinion of the case, but rather helps the parties formulate a mutually acceptable agreement. To ensure an efficient process, the parties must complete discovery prior to the mediation session, and submit a Confidential Settlement Statement to the program manager.
Probate mediations usually take 2-4 hours, and are scheduled throughout the week. If an agreement is reached in mediation, the mediator will draft an agreement document and submit it to the judge for approval. If an agreement is not reached in mediation, the parties and their attorneys will proceed to court according to their scheduling order. At this time, the program is not recruiting new mediators. For more information about the Probate Mediation Program, please contact Claudette Taylor, 202-879-0678.
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