Community Mediation

What is Mediation?  A process in which a trained, impartial panel helps participants communicate their concerns to each other, clarify options for resolution, and develop mutually acceptable solutions. Mediation is voluntary and based on the good faith effort of all participants.

Mediation is not counseling, therapy or advocacy.  It does not replace the need for legal advice if your "rights" are the question in dispute. Unlike a judge or an arbitrator, the mediators do not decide what is right or wrong. Mediation is a less formal process than arbitration or litigation.

  • We mediate disputes between neighbors, landlords and tenants, coworkers, roommates, siblings, or any willing participants who live or work in Yolo County.

    Criteria for scheduling a mediation session are:                                                       

    • The case is appropriate for service based on the intake assessment

    • All parties are willing to participate

    • A reasonably prompt and mutually convenient time and date can be arranged

    • 30-60 minute intake with each party.

    • 1 hour prep meeting for each party with the mediators.

    • 2-3 hour joint session with all parties. Some cases may take additional sessions.

  • Introductions – Mediators explain their role and explain the procedures, ground rules and logistics for the session. This includes explaining the private and confidential structure of mediation.

    Issues and Perspectives – Each party has an opportunity to express to the panel their concerns. The panel assists the parties in expressing those matters that are relevant to the problem and help parties clarify their positions. Discussion between parties will focus on hearing each other’s perspectives and needs.

    Finding common ground – The participants, not the mediation panel, develop a mutually acceptable agreement that is practical and realistic for them. Mediators scribe the words of the parties into a written agreement that has been crafted by the parties. Parties can settle on an oral agreement if they so choose.

    • Issues you want discussed in the session

    • Underlying reasons for your position

    • What you may need from the other person

    • Your motivation for shifting your perspective

    • Your assessment of the other party’s wishes

    • Consulting with others who may be affected by any agreement you may sign in the session

    • State laws, court rules or local ordinances that may govern situations which are inappropriate for mediation. It is YOUR responsibility to inform yourself about any applicable laws.

  • Our mediation services are offered on a sliding scale. We are committed to accessibility, and no one is turned away for lack of funds.

  • Yolo Conflict Resolution Center (YCRC) recruits volunteers from diverse backgrounds who are required to complete a rigorous nationally recognized training program. Mediators are trained to be impartial and are not assigned to a case if they know the participants personally or have any stake in the outcome of the mediation.

Interested in opening a mediation case?

Fill out this form or send an email to

mediation@yolocrc.org