Handbook IV.D: Mediation Program

Program procedures are described in the Court's Revised Order establishing the Appellate Mediation Program. All civil cases docketed in the Court are screened by the Mediation Office and the Legal Division. Those deemed appropriate for mediation, in whole or in part, are referred to the Chief Circuit Mediator for further assessment and placement into the Program. Litigants may request mediation using the Clerk’s Office “Confidential Request to Enter Appellate Mediation Program” form. The form is submitted directly to the Mediation Office and not entered into the docket or served upon the other parties.

Mediation procedures are explained to counsel when a case is selected for mediation. Counsel are also advised of the Mandatory Notification of Settlement Proceedings notice (issued by the Clerk on March 1, 2016). The notice provides that the parties must notify the Clerk when serious settlement negotiations begin and at the earliest possible moment if a settlement is reached.