Mediation & Community Services

The Dispute Resolution program offers mediation services to qualified parties. Mediation is a process in which an impartial third party assists disputants in finding a mutually acceptable solution to their dispute. Program alumni and current students who have completed at least 200 training hours perform the mediations on a voluntary basis.

How It Works

Parties may use SMU Mediation Center services either before or after a lawsuit is filed. If parties agree to use mediation, they may contact SMU directly to arrange for a convenient mediation time. Once a lawsuit is filed, a judge may order mediation and appoint the SMU Mediation Center as the mediator. All parties involved in the dispute will then be contacted and a mediation scheduled.

Mediation ... is fair and neutral

Parties have an equal say in the mediation process and the settlement terms.  The mediator has no authority to impose a settlement without agreement.  During mediation, whether ordered by a judge or arranged directly by the parties, both sides will be able to exchange information, express expectations, and propose solutions for reaching resolution. The mediator will facilitate this process by helping the parties communicate clearly and appropriately.

Mediation ... can save time and money

Litigation can be expensive, time consuming, and emotionally costly. Most mediated settlements, on the other hand, are completed in one meeting, often saving considerable time and expense.  More complicated matters may necessitate multiple sessions before an agreement is reached.  Legal or other representation is permitted in all cases, but not required. 

Mediation ... can be binding if agreement is reached

Mediation can result in a binding agreement to both parties. If an agreement is not reached, a lawsuit may then be filed. Or, if already in litigation, the case will be sent back to the judge who referred it to mediation.

Mediation ... is confidential

The mediation process is confidential. Confidential information provided to the mediator by the parties during the mediation process cannot be divulged by the mediator. Moreover, the parties’ settlement discussions cannot be used as evidence in any future court proceeding.

Mediation Schedule

Mediations are typically scheduled weekdays starting at 9:30 am or 1:00 pm, although other times can be arranged if necessary. The SMU Mediation Center office is open Monday through Friday between 9: 00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.  Please contact us by email at mediation@smu.edu to set a date and time.

Mediation Fee

Each party pays an administrative fee of $75 (payable to Southern Methodist University) for a mediation session.

If you would like to speak with someone regarding the process, please call the Center administrator, Julia Elliott at 972-473-3486 for more information.