Mediation

Director and Case Mediator:
Monica Kirkland
  
Program Assistant:
Laura Blanco

Mediation


Court Mediation is one of the many innovative services and programs implemented by Judge Theresa Dellick to build, and re-build, stronger families in an effort to prevent juvenile delinquency and reduce recidivism.  Court Mediation assists parents, youth and their families, and victims of offenses committed by youth, in creating and supporting a mutually attained solution to a dispute or problem. Court Mediation is an alternative to costly and time-consuming court proceedings. Court Mediation is available for all types of cases under the jurisdiction of our court, including but not limited to, cases involving delinquent and unruly youth, restitution, family conflict, as well as parenting and visitation matters. Court Mediation follows an evidence-based method of alternate dispute resolution and has been considered a model mediation program.

Work Restitution


Believing that part of the juvenile justice process is taking responsibility for one’s actions, youth and victims of offenses committed by a youth, may be eligible to participate in a Work Restitution program through Court Mediation. Since 2008, this program, specifically for Court Mediation participants and using grant funds primarily, was created in an effort to restore the victim to the greatest extent possible and hold youth accountable while engaging the community through community service.

Mediators


Pursuant to Rules of Superintendence for the Courts of Ohio and the Local Rules of court, mediators who work with families from all dockets in juvenile division need to complete extensive hours of Supreme Court of Ohio approved training. Mediators also must possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and have professional experience working with families. Mediators participate in ongoing training as well as research and professional development opportunities to stay current in the field and hone skills to enhance the quality of direct services provided.  This is essential in order to meet the programmatic needs as well as the needs of those served by providing an alternative to resolving conflict and assisting with building competencies in families and youth.