Student Mediation Services
Conflict is inevitable, and it can be emotionally draining and disruptive. Through our student mediation services, we provide a structured and supportive process to help empower individuals in conflict to find a path forward.
Who We Are
Our student mediation services are provided by a team of third-year law students, all trained in mediation under and supervised by Professor Casey Thomson. Our mediators are passionate about conflict resolution and dedicated to fostering a more harmonious campus and off-campus environment.
Services provided
We help resolve community disputes by providing mediation services in a variety of situations, including:
- Interpersonal Conflict Mediation – For friends, classmates, colleagues, or student organizations experiencing conflict.
- Roommate Dispute Mediation – Assisting roommates in resolving conflicts related to shared living spaces, responsibilities, or lifestyle differences.
- Neighbor and Housing Disputes – Addressing conflicts between neighbors or housing-related concerns that impact campus and off-campus life.
Questions? Click here to send us an email.
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process in which a neutral third party (the mediator) helps individuals in conflict communicate more effectively and explore possible solutions. Mediators do not give their opinions or advice, and they cannot impose an outcome. Instead, they facilitate dialogue, helping participants express concerns, listen actively, and work to find common ground.
The benefits of mediation can include:
- Preserving relationships. Mediation fosters understanding and collaboration.
- Flexibility. Parties craft their own solutions rather than following a rigid legal outcome.
- Efficiency. Mediation is often faster and less stressful than more formal dispute resolution processes.
Confidentiality is a fundamental principle of mediation, ensuring a reasonably safe environment for open discussion. All conversations had during mediation are confidential and, pursuant to an agreement between the participants, cannot be disclosed outside the process or used in legal proceedings.
To maintain privacy:
- All participants must agree to confidentiality before mediation begins.
- No statements made during the mediation can be shared with outside parties.
- Recording of mediation sessions is strictly prohibited.
By upholding these principles, we create a secure and trustworthy space where open communication can thrive.
What is the mediation process like?
The mediation process begins by submitting a brief form outlining the conflict. A member of our team will then reach out to both parties separately to explain the mediation process and obtain consent to proceed. If both parties agree to proceed, a mediation session will be scheduled. Please note that mediation is not guaranteed—both parties must be willing to participate, and we reserve the right to choose not to mediate a matter.
What happens if we don't reach an agreement?
Our goal is to help the parties understand each other, which often results in a resolution. However, mediation does not always result in an agreement. Even if a resolution isn’t reached, mediation often helps clarify misunderstandings, improve communication, and lay the groundwork for future discussions. If an agreement is not reached, you are free to choose an alternative path to resolution.
Who can request mediation?
Any student at Duke University experiencing interpersonal conflict can request mediation. Resident Advisors (RAs) and other campus leaders are also welcome to refer cases.
Is the mediator a judge?
No, the mediator is not a judge. Mediators do not make decisions or impose solutions. They facilitate communication and help the parties involved make the best decision for themselves about how they wish to move forward.
Is the mediator a lawyer? Can you give me legal advice?
No, our mediators are not lawyers, and they cannot provide legal advice. Mediation is a voluntary and informal process focused on communication and possible resolution, not legal determinations.
Do I need a lawyer for this mediation?
No, you do not need a lawyer to participate in mediation. This is an informal process designed to help parties communicate and potentially find solutions on their own terms.
What types of cases are you unable to take?
We do not accept cases involving domestic violence, threats of harm, or situations where there is a restraining order between the parties. Additionally, mediation may not be appropriate for disputes involving large sums of money (contact us for details). If your case falls outside the scope of our services, we can help guide you toward alternative resources.
How much will this cost?
Our student services are free of charge.
Who has to agree to mediate?
Mediation is a voluntary process, meaning that all parties must agree to participate. If one party does not want to engage in mediation, we cannot move forward with the process.
How long will the mediation take?
Mediation sessions typically last around two hours. However, the length may vary depending on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to engage in the process.