Case Evaluation
Case Evaluation is a process where a panel of three experienced attorneys reviews civil cases. They assess the monetary value to help encourage settlements before trial. If a party rejects the evaluation, they may have to pay the opposing party’s costs unless they improve their position at trial. This can include attorney fees, which may be substantial.
ADR Clerks manage the process by scheduling hearings, receiving case summaries, and tracking evaluations. If a case is not resolved, it is scheduled for trial.
Mediation
Mediation, as per Michigan court rule MCR 2.410, involves a mediator helping parties resolve disputes outside of court. A judge can refer a case to mediation after discussing it with the parties.
Reserve a room in the Paw Paw Courthouse for mediation or other meetings.
2024 Approved Case Evaluator and Mediator Lists
- 2024 Case Evaluator List (PDF)
- 2024 Domestic Mediators List (PDF)
- 2024 General Civil Mediators List (PDF)
Case Evaluator and Mediator Applications
Applications for Case Evaluators and Mediators are always welcome. The ADR Advisory Committee reviews these applications. Evaluators must reapply every 7 years, and Mediators must show proof of 8 hours of Advanced Mediation Training every 2 years and reapply every 7 years.
- Case Evaluator Application (PDF)
- Domestic Mediator Application (PDF)
- General / Civil Mediator Application (PDF)
Submit all 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.
