DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Alternative Dispute Resolution

The Department of the Navy's Alternative Dispute Resolution Policy first issued in 1996 concluded, "every reasonable step must be taken to resolve disputes prior to litigation." Mediation, as part of the Navy's Alternative Dispute Resolution Program, promotes principles and practices that will facilitate communication and maintain or improve working relationships. Using mediation to resolve workplace differences demonstrates a commitment to a positive approach and joint ownership of concerns and solutions. The mediation process allows parties the opportunity to resolve their differences quickly, less formally and with more efficient use of resources than traditional dispute mechanisms such as litigation.

Mediation is a process where a neutral third person acts to encourage and facilitate the resolution of a dispute between two or more parties. It is a confidential, informal, private, non-adjudicative and non-adversarial process with the objective of helping the disputing parties collaboratively reach a mutually acceptable and voluntary agreement. In mediation, the mediator does not make decisions or force a decision on any party to the dispute. The role of the mediator includes, but is not limited to, assisting the parties to identify issues, fostering joint problem solving, and exploring settlement opportunities in a neutral environment.

Department of the Navy (DoN) Certified Mediators must meet and are required to maintain high standards of competence and ethics.

Furthermore, the DoN Mediation Program for Workplace Disputes provides that DoN employees, supervisors, and managers have access to an alternative method of resolving workplace disputes.

For more information on this program, please see the   Department of the Navy Alternative Dispute Resolution Website or click on the button below.  Additionally, the Mediation Frequently Asked Questions Webpage provides insights on mediation, the value of mediation, and what happens in a mediation meeting.  

If you have any questions or concerns about the Alternative Dispute Resolution Program,

please call 760-725-9810