NCJ Number
143934
Journal
Deviance et societe Volume: 17 Issue: 2 Dated: (Trim./June 1993) Pages: 163-183
Date Published
1993
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article explains the mediation program of the Massachusetts Crime and Justice Foundation (CJF) as an alternative approach to conflict resolution.
Abstract
The CJF is a private nonprofit organization, that receives over 90 percent of its cases through referrals from the Massachusetts judicial system. Seventy-four percent of the cases involve violent offenses including domestic violence and disputes between neighbors or friends. The mediation procedure takes place during voluntary meetings in which a trained mediator explores the grievances of each party and the options of reaching an agreement. The process concludes with a written agreement, that stipulates specific rules of behavior (e.g., to live in peace with each other) and/or the payment of damages. The agreement is signed by both parties, and the results are then communicated to the referring agency. Of 92 CJF mediation cases, 72 percent were resolved to the satisfaction of both parties. The article concludes that mediation is a successful and viable way of reducing social tension and of improving the neighborhood climate through the direct participation of the involved parties.