Program Cutting Number of Civil Cases in Half

It certainly wasn't like any other regular day in court for lawyer Hammond Beale Monday. "Today, two of the cases I had, one of them got resolved and settled," said Beale.

One of Beale's cases was settled before ever having to go to a judge. It's all thanks to a newly implemented program by the Community Mediation Center. "I don't know what else you could say about this program, but that it works," said Beale.

In Lexington and Richland county, anyone wanting a jury trial in civil court must first go through a 30 minute "mediation session." The purpose is for the plaintiff and defendant to sit down, talk, and try to come to an agreement. To help lead the discussion sits two "mediators." Both lawyers are also present.

"We want them to take ownership of the conversation. We're simply there as a neutral third party guide to help them stay on track," said Community Mediation Center's Alisa Maybry.

Maybry says half of the time it works, and that means half the hassle for the court system. Court Administrator Wanda Kelly says that success rate has been a lifesaver in Richland County. Two years ago before the program the county had 413 civil cases backlogged. Now they have none.

"Mediation is a viable alternative to resolve a dispute, but it also streamlines the process for the court systems," said Maybry.

"I think it's gonna save the state a lot of money because we don't have to try the cases. We normally need a pool of 50-60 people for a six jury trial, and you have to pay everyone," said Beale.

The center also acts as a mediator for people in a number of situations outside of court, such as family problems or home foreclosure. The sessions are run by trained volunteers, and are free or low in cost. To learn more click here.