The Status of Mediation in Virginia

Recently, I attended an intensive, day-long training for area mediators on child support and spousal support issues. It was great seeing lots of old friends. Having been involved with mediation since 1993, it makes me feel good that so many folks that I have trained have moved on to become certified mediators. But what really struck me was the number of new, eager faces in the room. It seems that mediation is “alive and well” in Virginia and that the citizens of the state have many capable people to assist them in finding a peaceful resolution to conflict. Whether it is dealing with difficult family situations (such as divorce, custody, visitation or support), sticky landlord-tenant issues, tough neighborhood disputes or confusing business-consumer problems, there are highly qualified and dedicated mediators (many of them volunteers!) ready to help. And that is comforting to know.

Karen Richards