Mediation Services

Although no party to an arbitrable matter can be required to submit to mediation, it is a useful tool in resolving the conflicts that arise involving members and their clients and customers.  Mediation can resolve disputes and promote amicable resolutions.

Upon receipt of an inquiry for arbitration, mediation is offered as a voluntary option.  Like arbitration, the statute of limitations for filing a mediation is 180 days from the time that you could have known there was a dispute.

To file for mediation, a request must be filed using the Request to Mediate.  Your form and a supporting document with a narrative or chronological summary of the events must be filed with Michele McCaskill, Professional Standards Administrator ([email protected] or 704-940-3150).  After receiving the request from the complainant, the respondent is notified and mutual agreement to mediate must be received.  If consent is not received, the complainant will then proceed with filing an arbitration request.

If both parties agree to mediation, a mediation officer is selected and a date for mediation is set.  This is typically scheduled at the CRCBR offices or the offices of CRCBR’s attorney, at a time convenient for all parties.

During the mediation, any party may withdraw from the process at any point prior to reaching an agreement.  Any offers of settlement that were not accepted or any suggestion resolution proposed by the Mediation Officer that was not accepted will not be introduced as evidence nor consider in any matter should it be arbitrated. 

If the parties agree to a settlement of the dispute, and the settlement has been reduced to writing and signed by all the parties, the matter is deemed resolved and cannot be subject to a subsequent arbitration hearing.  If either of the parties fails to abide by the terms of the settlement, the other party should be encouraged to have the settlement agreement judicially enforced by a court of competent jurisdiction.  

View the Mediation Process