Community Mediation Center of Calvert County
In-person or remote options available.
FAQs
You might be asking, "Why would I want to go to mediation?" Mediation offers an opportunity to manage conflicts differently. Agreements reached by the participants themselves are far more likely to be satisfying and lasting solutions than those imposed upon the participants by others. Here are some of our most frequently asked questions about peaceful conflict resolution.
01
I have to work during the day. When and where are mediations scheduled?
Mediations are scheduled at the convenience of the participants. Sessions are available in the morning, afternoon, and evenings on Monday through Friday (Saturdays and Sundays upon request). Mediation sites are also conveniently located throughout Calvert County so that most mediation participants don’t have to travel very far.
If you are a resident of St Mary's County or Charles County, you can contact your center directly for more information.
02
How much will it cost to go to mediation?
Mediation services are provided at no cost to Calvert County residents. If you would like to make a donation, we welcome your support. Donations are tax deductible and go toward our grant requirement to raise matching funds. The Center is particially supported by a grant from the Maryland Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO).
03
What if I go to mediation and don’t reach an agreement? Then what?
While reaching an agreement is one of the potential benefits of mediation, it is not the only one. Even if participants don’t reach an agreement in their session, they often appreciate the opportunity to tell their stories and have someone listen without judgment. Additionally, participants often find that they have a better and more clear understanding of the situation and their options. If there is a pending court case and an agreement is not reached, the case will proceed through the courts.
04
What if I already have a court case?
If your case is pending in the District Court of Calvert County, you may be able to go to mediation and avoid a court appearance entirely. The Center mediates many small claims cases—both pretrial and on the day of trial. Give us a call to discuss the specifics of your case and whether it may be appropriate for mediation. (Information shared is confidential and voluntary.) If both parties wish to try mediation and are able to reach an agreement prior to your court date, the case may be deemed closed by the courts, possibly saving you time and money.
05
I want to protect my privacy. Is mediation confidential?
Maryland law protects the confidentiality of all mediation communications. That means that, with a few exceptions to protect public safety, mediators will not discuss what is said during the course of mediation with anyone outside of the mediation. While court proceedings are a matter of public record, your privacy is protected in mediation. For more information on laws protecting mediation confidentiality, please refer to the Maryland Mediation Confidentiality Act.