Queens Mediation Network
Queens Mediation Network is a community-focused program that provides conflict resolution training and mediation services to all residents of Queens. Our program objective is to provide professional conflict resolution services, in an accessible manner, to all residents of Queens. A key component of our program's success relies on incorporating as many community residents as possible into the internal workings of the program. Our ultimate goal is to provide training to local community residents to allow us to manage community dispute resolution centers across the county.
To better understand what we are about and how we serve the residents of Queens, we have listed some important facts that describe our program and answer the common questions presented by the Queens residents that utilize our program.
Q. What is Mediation?
A. Mediation is a process that provides an alternative way to resolve conflicts with others. Few conflicts in life, whether personal, family or business, can resolve themselves without effective communication. In mediation individuals meet confidentially. Under the facilitation of a professional mediator, they discuss their shared problem and review possible options for a resolution. Mediation is a non-adversarial process that can help rebuild the bonds of trust lost in the dynamics of conflict.
The process is based upon the belief that disputants can resolve their own issues with the aid of a third party if the following approach is used:
The mediator will present the process as a respectful means to have them create a fair resolution to their issues.
- The mediator will not allow an overpowering party to use the process to abuse or bully the other.
- The mediator will allow the parties to present their issues, ideas and concerns.
- The mediator will empower the parties to discuss, analyze and problem solve in a collaborative manner.
- The mediator will reframe the issues and needs of the parties in positive proactive terms.
- The mediator will foster recognition between the parties so that both will be heard and understood.
- The parties will arrive at a solution that they feel is best for them.
- The mediator will memorialize the agreement on paper for the parties to sign.
- The mediator will explain other options if the parties do not reach a solution.
Q. What types of problems and issues can be discussed in Mediation?
A. The process of Mediation is available to aid in the resolution of many types of conflicts. Among them are:
- Landlord /Tenant
- Noise issue with Neighbors
- Harassment
- Consumer /Merchant
- Family Disputes
- Repayment of Debts
- Workplace Disputes
- Property Damage
- School Based Problems
- Organizational
Other problems not listed above may be appropriate for mediation and can be reviewed by our trained staff on an individual basis.
Q. What are the benefits to using Mediation?
A. There are many benefits of using Mediation for the people participating in the process. Through your participation in Mediation, you avoid having to go to court and encountering attorney fees and a calendar that can keep you waiting for months. Additionally, you can be as creative as you need to be to resolve the burdensome issues that are present in your life. In participating in Mediation you are presented with an opportunity to resolve your issues and create immediate solutions. Immediate solutions are important to your safety as it can enhance your personal safety in precluding escalating tensions and possible violence. Additionally, if mediation is unsuccessful, you do not forfeit the ability to go to court (should your case be eligible).
Q. How do I make an appointment to set up a Mediation?
A. Anyone involved in a conflict who would like to try Mediation should come to one of our offices to meet confidentially with a staff member to schedule an appointment. When scheduling an appointment, you should bring the name, address and phone number of the party you would like to mediate with.
To make an appointment you may call or come
to one of the following offices:
Queens Mediation Network
89-64 163rd Street
Jamaica, NY 11432
(718) 523-6868 ext 268/269
Community Dispute Resolution Center
Queens Criminal Court Dispute Referral Center
125-01 Queens Boulevard
Room #C-24 (Basement level)
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
(718) 520-4710
Q. If I do not speak English, can Mediation provide an Interpreter?
A. Yes. We are fortunate to have the ability to utilize the Interpreters currently employed by the New York State Court System. It is advisable, for those residents who do not speak English, that when making your appointment for Mediation you bring with you a friend or relative as your interpreter for this initial appointment. An Interpreter will be required for the actual Mediation session once it is scheduled.
Q. If I am a service provider with another service agency in Queens, can I make referrals to Queens Mediation?
A. Yes. We accept referrals from any service agency that believes Mediation will be of assistance to their client.
Q. If I am interested in becoming a Mediator and volunteering my services to the community, whom do I contact?
A. Please contact our staff at (718) 523-6868 ext 284 if you would like information on becoming a Mediator.
Q. If I am interested in having my staff or fellow associates trained in Mediation, whom do I contact?
A. You should contact our Training Institute at (718) 523-6868 ext 209
For more information on the many trainings available for your staff in the fields of Mediation or Conflict Resolution, CLICK HERE FOR A LINK TO OUR TRAINING INSTITUTE
Q. Do you have specialty programs that deal with specific types of issues?
A. Yes we do. We have found that certain types of issues require a more specialized type of mediation. Therefore, the following list details our specialty programs. To receive more information on these specialty programs, click on the designated LINK.
CUSTODY & VISITATION ISSUES
PARENT / CHILD MEDIATION (F.A.I.R.)
VICTIM/OFFENDER MEDIATION
CRIME VICTIMS CLAIM ASSISTANCE
DIVORCE MEDIATION
SPECIAL EDUCATION MEDIATION
Queens Mediation Network is Funded by The NYC Criminal Justice Coordinator's Offic
