1-14:  MEDIATION Program: Alternate Dispute Resolution

The bankruptcy court mediation program was created in coordination with local bar associations to help parties resolve disputes for free or at low cost in a bankruptcy case or adversary proceeding.  The mediation program is available to parties who agree to participation in mediation, or who are ordered by the court to participate in mediation. 

Mediators must be approved to participate in the program and are either attorneys or non-attorneys.  Parties to a mediation are involved in selecting a mediator.  At the conclusion of a mediation, a mediator prepares and files a certificate to advise the judge whether a settlement was reached.   A settlement is not approved until parties obtain an order approving the settlement.   

See link below for information and instructions, including mandatory forms to prepare and file.