Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Case Evaluation

Case Evaluation is a process where a panel of three experienced attorneys reviews civil cases. They assess the case’s value to encourage settlements before trial. If a party rejects the evaluation and doesn’t improve their position at trial, they may pay the other party’s costs, including attorney fees. This provides a strong incentive to settle cases.

ADR Clerks manage the process by scheduling hearings, receiving case summaries, and tracking evaluations. Cases not settled through evaluation will proceed to trial.

Mediation

Mediation helps parties resolve disputes with the assistance of a mediator, as per Michigan court rule, MCR 2.410. A judge may refer a case to mediation after discussing it with the parties involved.

Reserve a room in the Paw Paw Courthouse for mediation or meetings.

2024 Approved Case Evaluator / Mediator Lists

• 2024 Case Evaluator List (PDF)
• 2024 Domestic Mediators List (PDF)
• 2024 General Civil Mediators List (PDF)

Case Evaluator / Mediator Applications

Applications for Case Evaluators and Mediators are accepted anytime. The ADR Advisory Committee reviews applications. Evaluators must re-apply every 7 years. Mediators need 8 hours of Advanced Mediation Training every 2 years and must re-apply every 7 years.

• Case Evaluator Application (PDF)
• Domestic Mediator Application (PDF)
• General / Civil Mediator Application (PDF)

Submit applications to:
ADR Clerk
Van Buren County Courts
212 E Paw Paw Street
Suite 220
Paw Paw, MI 49079

If you have questions, please contact us at 269-657-8200 ext. 2213.