Question: What is a mediator?
Answer: A mediator is a neutral third party who facilitates discussion, clarifies viewpoints, and helps parties find common ground. Mediators are not judges or arbitrators; they do not take sides, decide who is right or wrong, or provide legal advice.
Question: Is mediation confidential?
Answer: Yes. The mediation process is confidential and voluntary, meaning any participant can terminate the session at any time. Mediators will not share information without consent, except when required by law (e.g., child abuse, elder abuse, or credible threats of bodily harm).
Question: Who will be my mediator?
Answer: Mediations are typically conducted by Founder and CEO Omar Battle. However, End Your Conflicts, LLC (EYC) reserves the right to assign a qualified mediator from our roster or include a co-mediator.
Question: Does EYC reach out to the other party to schedule the mediation?
Answer: Yes. EYC will contact the other party to invite them to participate. Because mediation is voluntary, the decision to join is entirely up to them.
Question: Can EYC conduct sessions in person?
Answer: EYC provides both in-person and virtual services for organizations in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. For individual mediations (interpersonal, parenting plans, or divorce), we strongly recommend virtual sessions. If requested in person, sessions take place at a public Maryland location, such as a local library conference room.
Question: Can a mediator come to my home?
Answer: No, we do not conduct mediations in private residences.
Question: How are payments processed?
Answer: Payments are processed securely via Wave, Cash App, or Venmo.
Question: Do I pay before or after the mediation session?
Answer: Payment is required prior to the session and covers up to two hours. Additional sessions will require separate payment.
Question: Can I get a refund if the other party fails to show up?
Answer: No. Because both parties must agree to participate and sign a consent form beforehand, all payments are final and non-refundable.
Question: Can I reschedule my session if I cannot make it?
Answer: Yes. You may reschedule your session within 30 days of the original date. After 30 days, a new payment is required.
Question: Are mediation agreements legally enforceable?
Answer: Written agreements reached in mediation and signed by all participants may be legally binding contracts, and in some cases, they definitely are. You may contact EYC for more details.