Guardianship & Probate Matters
These cases involve sensitive issues related to guardianships, conservatorships, trusts, estate administration, and long-term care decisions. Mediation allows families and interested parties to work through emotionally complex decisions in a guided setting, often reducing prolonged court proceedings and preserving family relationships.
Restorative
Practices
Restorative practices focus on repairing harm and rebuilding relationships, particularly in youth and community settings. Through facilitated conversations, peace circles, and accountability conferences, individuals acknowledge the impact of their actions and develop agreements to make things right. These programs are frequently used in schools and juvenile matters to promote responsibility and prevent future conflict.
Landlord Tenant, Neighborhood,Â
Property, Real Estate
These disputes often involve housing issues, property boundaries, noise complaints, shared spaces, lease agreements, evictions, or real estate transactions. Mediation offers a practical, community-based way to address conflict between neighbors or between landlords and tenants, often preserving relationships while reaching workable agreements.
Truancy, School Conflicts
School-based mediation helps address conflicts involving students, parents, teachers, and administrators. Cases may include truancy concerns, peer disputes, bullying, classroom conflicts, or disagreements between families and school staff. Mediation provides a structured space to improve communication, clarify expectations, and support student success.
Domestic Relations, Divorce, Child Welfare
Mediation in family matters helps parents and family members make decisions about divorce, parenting time, custody arrangements, child support, and related concerns. In child welfare cases, mediation may support families, caseworkers, and legal representatives in developing plans that prioritize the safety and well-being of children while encouraging collaborative problem-solving.
Contracts, General Civil, Small Claim
These cases involve disputes over money, contracts, services, or other civil matters between individuals, businesses, or organizations. Small claims cases typically involve lower-dollar disputes handled in district court, while general civil cases may involve higher monetary claims. Mediation provides an opportunity for parties to resolve these matters efficiently, often avoiding prolonged court proceedings and additional costs.
Commonly Utilized Mediation Services
2%Â
each
Restorative Practices, Guardianship & Probate Matters,Â
Other
39%
Contracts, General Civil,Â
Small Claim
27%
Domestic Relations, Divorce, Child Welfare
17%
Truancy, School Conflicts
​
​
11%
Landlord Tenant, Neighborhood, Property, Real Estate
2024 Michigan Mediation Overview by Case Type