Mediation Strengthens Communities

by Meg S | Feb 26, 2025

Conflict as a Path to Understanding

Conflict is a natural part of human interaction, but it doesn’t have to create lasting division. With the right approach, disputes can become opportunities for understanding, healing, and growth. At the Dispute Resolution Center of King County, we’ve seen time and again how mediation fosters resolution while strengthening relationships.

A Case for Mediation: Finding Common Ground

Recently, an organization facing internal challenges turned to mediation for support. The situation involved multiple individuals with differing perspectives, and emotions ran high. The organization’s leadership sought a way forward—one that would prioritize collaboration and understanding rather than tension and division.

Through structured dialogue and professional facilitation, mediation provided a space where all voices could be heard. Skilled mediators, fluent in both English and Spanish, ensured that participants could fully express themselves, breaking down barriers to communication. The process was patient, thoughtful, and focused on finding a resolution that honored everyone’s concerns.

The Impact of Mediation: Voices from Participants

One participant shared that mediation helped them feel “supported and understood,” leading to an outcome they once thought was impossible. Another described the mediators as “patient, caring, and very skilled at asking the right questions,” helping everyone involved feel heard and valued. Ultimately, what had been a difficult conflict became an opportunity for deeper trust and collaboration.

Beyond Resolution: Building Stronger Communities

Mediation is more than just resolving disputes—it’s about building stronger, healthier communities. It fosters open communication, encourages problem-solving, and equips individuals and organizations with the tools to navigate future challenges with confidence.

Find Support Through Mediation

If your workplace, community, or family is facing a conflict, mediation can help. The Dispute Resolution Center of King County is here to provide professional, compassionate, and effective conflict resolution services tailored to your needs.

Schedule a mediation.

Connecting Globally on Family Law Practices

by Meg S | Jan 21, 2025

The Dispute Resolution Center of King County (KCDRC) recently participated in an exciting international exchange hosted by KCDRC and the University of Washington School of Law. This event, organized with the university’s support, included dynamic discussions with Commissioner Hon. Jonathon Lack, Professor Terry J. Price, a judge from Uganda, and family court representatives from Japan (Yasufumi Oshima, Shinnosuke Yamaguchi, Hisa Fujino, Takeshi Hitotsuyanagi.) KCDRC board member, Alan Kirtley, an associate professor emeritus at UW, and Board President, Sara Sandford, who helped provide Japanese translation during the event, were integral to the success of these conversations. Together, we explored family law practices, cultural influences, and strategies to advance alternative dispute resolution (ADR). We are deeply grateful to UW and all participants for fostering this meaningful collaboration.

Putting Families First 

Hon. Commissioner Lack and Professor Price emphasized the importance of keeping legal processes from interfering with parent-child relationships. Societal changes, such as women’s increased workforce participation, have influenced custody dynamics, shifting from traditional assumptions to more equitable approaches. They emphasized that mandatory ADR is helping reduce court involvement, ensuring that decisions are guided by what is best for children rather than prolonged legal battles.

Insights from Japan 

Japan’s family court representatives shared upcoming changes, including a presumption of joint custody starting in 2026 and mandatory mediation in family court. They noted challenges with ADR development in Japan and were eager to learn from KCDRC’s experience.

KCDRC highlighted its accessible services, such as sliding scale fees and free services for those in need, while maintaining separation from legal advice. Discussions delved into cultural differences in parenting plans, such as how societal expectations influence custody agreements and decision-making processes. For example, Japan’s approach often reflects hierarchical organizational structures, where authority figures guide decisions, compared to KCDRC’s collaborative, facilitative, and flexible methods that emphasize individual agency and adaptability.

Further conversations examined the role of technology in intake processes, with Japan exploring online surveys to streamline data collection, while KCDRC shared its experience balancing digital and in-person approaches post-COVID. These discussions highlighted how cultural norms, and organizational styles shape strategies and impact service delivery.

A Unique Opportunity 

Dave Martine, KCDRC’s Executive Director, summed up the experience: “The opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues from another country was such a unique and enriching experience. I deeply value learning about other cultures and how those differences influence laws, policies, and interactions.”

Looking Ahead

KCDRC is grateful to the University of Washington and all participants for fostering this collaboration. The conversations reinforced how alternative dispute resolution can bridge cultural and legal differences to support families and communities worldwide.