Alameda County Superior Court Mediation Programs Review

Vocabulary flashcards focusing on court-connected mediation programs, mediator roles, outcomes, and attorney best practices based on Alameda County Superior Court procedures.

Court Mediation Program (CMP)

A court-connected mediation model at the Alameda County Superior Court serving Civil and Probate matters, where cases may be referred by the Court and parties select an agreed-upon mediator from the Court's panel.

Day of Court (DOC) Mediation Program

A court-connected mediation model for Small Claims, Civil Harassment, and Unlawful Detainer matters, where mediation is offered in connection with the parties' court appearance depending on case type and volunteer mediator availability.

Private Mediation

A mediation pathway distinct from the Court Mediation Program (CMP) to which cases can also be referred.

CMP Pro Bono Commitment

The required pro bono contribution by CMP panel mediators, which includes preparation time and the first two hours of the mediation session.

Program Outcome Classifications

The three possible status reports filed from the program side following a mediation: full agreement, partial agreement, or no agreement.

Success at Mediation

Reframing the goal away from one side winning and losing to helping clients make informed decisions—whether through full or partial settlement, narrowing issues, or understanding litigation risks.

Mediation Statement Best Practice

Writing a submission specifically designed for the mediation context rather than drafting it as another motion or trial brief.

Mediation-Completion Deadline

The target date established by the Court that attorneys should view as the end of the mediation process rather than the beginning.

Three Core Hot Tips for Attorneys

The distilled advice for handling court mediation cases: read the referral, start early, and prepare the client.