Implementation and coordination of mediation and other alternative dispute resolution (ADR) programs

(a) Implementation of mediation programs for civil cases

Superior courts should implement mediation programs for civil cases as part of their core operations.

(b) Promotion of ADR programs

Superior courts should promote the development, implementation, maintenance, and expansion of successful mediation and other alternative dispute resolution (ADR) programs, through activities that include:

(1) Establishing appropriate criteria for determining which cases should be referred to ADR, and what ADR processes are appropriate for those cases. These criteria should include whether the parties are likely to benefit from the use of the ADR process;

(2) Developing, refining, and using lists of qualified ADR neutrals;

(3) Adopting appropriate criteria for referring cases to qualified ADR neutrals;

(4) Developing ADR information and providing educational programs for parties who are not represented by counsel; and

(5) Providing ADR education for judicial officers.

(c) Coordination of ADR programs

Superior courts should coordinate ADR promotional activities and explore joint funding and administration of ADR programs with each other and with professional and community-based organizations.