Mediation
The Seattle Office for Civil Rights (SOCR) offers mediation services to resolve discrimination complaints through confidential discussions instead of going through the formal investigation process. Whether you filed a complaint or are responding to one, mediation gives you a chance to be heard, learn facts, and explore solutions. Any party can ask for mediation at any point, but both sides must agree to participate. If you reach an agreement, the complaint is withdrawn. If not, SOCR will investigate.
Benefits of Mediation
- Faster than investigation in most cases
- Private and guided by an impartial mediator
- Flexible in allowing you to choose what to discuss and how to participate
- Voluntary because you can stop at any time
Mediators do not decide who is right or wrong. They provide guidance and structure for productive conversations. Mediators help with communication, negotiation, and problem-solving. If you’re willing to listen and could use some help working things out on your own terms, mediation may be right for you.
SOCR’s mediation process is flexible and designed to meet your needs. Before mediation begins, you will be assigned to an experienced mediator that will help you choose how you want to meet and what you want to focus on. People can meet privately or as a group. Mediation can take place in person, by phone, online through video, by email, or text message.
Our goal is to support conversations that lead to informed decision-making about how you want to move forward.
If you would like to learn more, discuss it with your investigator or intake specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can mediate an inquiry or case any time after the discrimination charge is approved. It can be before or after an investigation begins.
No. We have options because we strive to meet however people are most comfortable. The mediator will discuss this with you and the other people involved.
No. You have the right to get legal advice or a lawyer at your own cost, but it’s not required. You can bring your lawyer to mediation. The mediator does not give legal advice.
Yes. You can bring a support person with you. A support person can be a trusted friend, case manager, representative, or other person you choose. We will provide an interpreter if you need one.
The inquiry or charge will be withdrawn and closed. The mediator will help the parties write out terms and sign a settlement agreement if you want one. Settlement agreements are kept by the parties and are not available to the public. Some people choose to sign a withdrawal form when they don’t need a written agreement.
Anyone can end mediation at any time. If there is no agreement, SOCR will assign your inquiry or case to an investigator. You may go back to mediation after the investigation has started.
No. Mediation is confidential. Recording in any form is not allowed. You cannot have someone watching or listening to a meeting without the other person’s knowledge, record audio or video on your phone, or take screenshots.