Conciliation in Massachusetts
“I thought it appropriate to write to you concerning the recent conciliation that you conducted in a high conflict case where I was representing one of the parties. Your excellent efforts resulted in a settlement of a case that defied settlement. I will certainly avail myself of your services in the future.”
Joseph J. Brodigan, Esq.
Conciliation is similar to case evaluation and mediation as they all involve a neutral person working with the parties involved in a dispute in an effort to reach a settlement. Conciliation tends to be more evaluative, and the focus is to get the parties to settle their case.
Conciliation in Massachusetts
At the Massachusetts Probate and Family Courts, many counties offer free conciliation services in an effort to move cases along that are otherwise heading for trial. Unlike mediation, conciliation occurs when a court case is already underway. Usually the lawyers for the parties are also present during conciliation, which is uncommon during the Massachusetts divorce mediation process.
Volunteer lawyers who have agreed to serve as conciliators, staff the court-based free programs. Time is limited in the free program to two hours. A couple may decide to retain a conciliator privately. Benefits include more flexibility with scheduling and a lack of time constraints. If you are interested in hiring one of our experienced attorneys as your private conciliator, please call or complete the contact form on this website.
A couple may decide to retain a conciliator privately. Benefits include more flexibility with scheduling and a lack of time constraints. If you are interested in hiring one of our experienced attorneys – both are also skilled mediators – contact us to learn how we can help you.
Some other Massachusetts courts, outside of the divorce and family law realm, have conciliation programs as well. One example is the Landlord – Tenant conciliation program.