The Dispute Resolution Center of Yakima and Kittitas Counties (DRC) offers a safe, neutral space where parties can find common ground and resolution to their conflicts. The DRC provides our community with a constructive alternative to litigation and going to court.
Need Help Resolving a Conflict?
We help disputing parties get on the same side.
Call us (509) 453-8949
or fill out a brief inquiry and we’ll call you!
What is mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process through which people involved in a conflict can sit down with a neutral third party to resolve their differences. Our mediators are professionally trained and certified. They listen to both parties and work with them to create a list of topics to be negotiated. With the guidance of the mediators, the parties negotiate and discuss the issues and create an agreement that is acceptable to those involved.
What Should I know about mediation?
All parties must voluntarily agree to participate and by law, mediation is confidential.
Is mediation expensive?
Most mediation sessions cost $200 per party – that includes a $50 intake fee and a $150 mediation session fee (including pre-session orientation). This varies by type of mediation. (You may apply for financial assistance by filling out a hardship application.)
How long does mediation last?
Most mediation sessions last from 2-4 hours. If a mediation session exceeds 4 hours, a second session will be scheduled.
What situations can be mediated?
Mediation services are available for a variety of circumstances including:
Family Mediation
Divorce or Separation Issues; Parenting Plans
Parent/Youth Conflicts
Elder Care Plans including estates, guardianships, and medical treatment arrangements
Neighborly Disputes
Business Disagreements
Consumer/Business Disputes
Landlord/Tenant Disputes
Personal Loans
Auto Accidents
Property Disputes
Small Claims
Settle small claims cases before trial so that disputing parties can come to agreement.
Professional Services for Businesses and Organizations
Unresolved conflict represents the largest reducible cost in many businesses. It pays to develop better communication skills and conflict resolution abilities for a more productive and profitable workplace. We offer businesses and organizations the training, facilitation, and mediation services that improve communication, negotiation, and listening skills. We also offer a variety of programs that can be tailored to your specific needs.
Victim/Offender Meeting Program
By referral only. Learn the background of the youth’s offense, answer the victim’s questions, discuss the impact of the crime, acknowledge the harm, increase community safety. VOM services provided at no charge.
Can we help you resolve a conflict?
Work Mutually Toward Resolution
Please call our office or fill in the form below to begin the process:
