| Mediation is free dispute resolution service monitored and conducted by the EEOC Mediation Unit. It simply helps both sides to reach an agreement without the cost of litigation. Both parties must agree to participate in the Mediation. Both parties may chose whomever they want to represent them in the mediation. You may choose to be your own advocate (pro se) or have a friend, advisor, or attorney represent your interest. The EEOC can provide you with a list of free (pro bono) advocates at your request. Mediation is confidential and all parties must sign a confidentiality agreement and agree not to disclose any details of the mediation. The information discussed in the mediation cannot be shared with the investigative or legal staff of the EEOC. The mediator is a neutral party and cannot make any decision as to who is right or wrong. It generally takes about 90 days from the filing of a charge before mediation occurs. Most mediation takes less than a day. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the case returns to the investigative unit and the investigation continues. |
