The day, which is meant to bring attention to non-adversarial options for conflict resolution, corresponds to International Conflict Resolution Day, which is observed each year on the third Thursday in October.
To celebrate Mediation Day and focus public attention on the benefits of dispute resolution alternatives, the member organizations of the coalition are planning a number of events around the state. The coalition will announce event details as they become available.
Mediation is a unique process designed to help people resolve disputes through voluntary settlements, without having to take a case through a lengthy and expensive trial and appeal. A neutral and impartial person, known as the mediator, offers a confidential and non-adversarial setting for disputing parties to meet face-to-face, communicate with each other, find common ground and ultimately reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
In Tennessee, court-based alternative dispute resolution was established statewide in 1996. Mediators listed under Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 must meet rigorous standards in education, work experience and training. About 900 individuals are active Rule 31 listed mediators in Tennessee - a 285% increase over the last ten years. These professionals offer services in cases ranging from complex business disputes to contested child custody cases.
In addition to dispute resolution services provided by Rule 31 listed mediators, Victim Offender Reconciliation Programs (known as VORPs) offer mediation services to persons referred by the courts or district attorneys. On the civil case side, trained volunteer mediators provide services at local community centers and courts across the state. Finally, parties turn to private dispute resolution services on the advice of their lawyers, often during the early stages of a lawsuit.
The Tennessee Coalition for Mediation Awareness was formed in August of this year to maximize the resources and expertise of various groups in the state committed to increasing awareness of mediation as an alternative to litigation. The mission of the coalition is to support programs and activities that educate the public and the legal profession on the benefits of mediation and other forms of conflict resolution.