Mediation Services Certified court-connected mediators (court staff and independent contractors) help parties resolve issues and reach voluntary agreements. The mediator guides the conversation but cannot make decisions for the parties.
Private Mediation Court-ordered mediations conducted by highly qualified mediators for parties who can afford private services to resolve complex financial and property issues.
Settlement Week Biannual weeks dedicated to mediation sessions conducted by private mediators that agree to cap their rates in the interest of negotiation and serving Franklin County families.
Parenting Coordination A process in which the Court orders a Parenting Coordinator to assist parties in implementing a parenting order using assessment, education, case management, conflict management, coaching, or decision-making.
Neutral Evaluation A focused, expert‑guided review where two Evaluators (a Magistrate and a subject‑matter expert) listen to the case background and offer an unbiased view of what a trial outcome might look like. This helps parties understand their case and consider resolution options.
Dispute Resolution Professionals Comments/Complaints Information and resources for making a formal comment or complaint about a court-ordered mediator, parenting coordinator, or neutral evaluator.