Frequently Asked Questions
About the City of Rockville’s Mediation Program

What is mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which neutral facilitators help people in dispute communicate and understand each other and, if possible, reach a mutually satisfactory resolution.

What is the process for setting up mediation?

Steps for setting up mediation are:

• A caller discusses an incident/conflict with the Human Rights and Community Mediation Administrator to determine if the incident took place in Rockville and qualifies for the  Program.
• If mediation request falls outside the City of Rockville’s jurisdiction or scope of service, a referral is made to a service provider that best suits the caller’s needs.  
•  If mediation is appropriate, the Administrator collects information about the conflict and invites the other person involved in the conflict to mediation.
• If all are in agreement to mediate, two mediators are assigned to conduct the mediation session. 
• The Administrator schedules the mediation at a time that is mutually agreeable to all participants. Mediations are usually held at Rockville City Hall. 
• A letter is sent to confirm the time, date, location, and who will attend the mediation.

Who are the mediators?

The mediators are volunteers from the Rockville Community who are trained in the mediation process. Their role is to facilitate discussion between participants and remain neutral throughout the process. They help participants identify the issues they would like to resolve and assist them in finding creative solutions to their conflict.

How long is a mediation session?

Generally a mediation session lasts for two hours. Occasionally, mediation may take
less time or more than two hours. On the occasion that there is a need for another session, one can be scheduled.

Do I need legal representation?

No, you don’t have to bring an attorney to mediation. Lawyers can attend the mediation if you wish, but they are not active participants in the process. They can be present to confer with during a break in the session. The goal is for both parties in the conflict to be heard and to represent themselves when speaking about the issues.

How much does mediation cost?

The City of Rockville’s Mediation Program is free of charge.

What conflicts or disputes are eligible for Rockville’s Mediation Program?

The Program can mediate conflicts between:

The Program’s mediation services address discriminatory issues that involve:

The Program can assist in reducing conflicts in meetings through:
Large Group Facilitation

What if mediation doesn’t work?

If you and the person with whom you are in conflict are unable to reach an agreement, you may decide to pursue other forms of resolution. A second mediation can also be scheduled. Although the Mediation Administrator can’t advise you on what to do beyond mediation, information about other resources and other forms of dispute resolution can be provided.

What happens after the mediation?

The City is not involved in enforcing any agreements made during mediation. The Administrator will call both participants approximately one month later to check on the status of the agreement. As a participant, you are welcome to request another mediation if you find that the agreement isn’t working, or if other conflicts arise.

How can I get more information or request mediation?

Call the Rockville Mediation Program at 240-314-8316. Janet Kelly, Human Rights and Community Mediation Administrator, will provide you with information about mediation, refer you to appropriate service providers, or set up a mediation.