The Fairfax County General District Civil and Small Claims Court Mediation Program is provided by Northern Virginia Mediation Service (NVMS). Mediation is a process in which impartial, trained professionals assist parties in dispute in finding a mutually acceptable solution to their conflict. Mediation is available at no charge when used in our court. The use of mediation is voluntary and must be agreed to by all parties.
Representatives from NVMS are present in the courtroom and will explain the procedure prior to the start of court. If mediation is requested, the judges will pass over the case while the parties and the mediator attempt to reach an agreement outside the courtroom. At the conclusion of the mediation session, the parties will return to the courtroom.
If the mediation is successful, the parties will return to the courtroom with an agreed order for the judge to sign. Once signed by a judge, mediated agreements are binding and may be enforced in court. However, either party may subsequently file a motion with the Clerk's Office requesting the judge dissolve the mediate agreement and reschedule the case for trial.
If you enter into mediation discussions and are unable to reach an agreement, your case will still be heard by a judge.
You can also call NVMS at 703-865-7272 or email them at info@nvms.us prior to your court date to obtain information or services.
