Conflict Mediation Centers

What are Conflict Mediation Centers?

Conflict Mediation Centers offer mediation, orientation, and referral to other services, whether public or private, that may be helpful in resolving disputes. Mediation is one of the alternative dispute resolution methods by which individuals may resolve their own disputes outside the courts.

What does mediation consist of?

It consists of a dialogue with the help of an impartial mediator (who does not favor any party and who has the necessary training to offer their knowledge and skills) where each party has the opportunity to present their version of the situation affecting them and participate voluntarily to reach an agreement that puts an end to the conflict in a manner that satisfies both parties. The process is confidential and free.

Why does the Judicial Branch of Puerto Rico offer mediation as an alternative service to the courts?

Because it is part of its public policy to seek out means that are quicker, more efficient, and less costly to resolve disputes, without having to resort to filing a lawsuit with the court, to the extent possible.

What are the advantages of mediation?
  • The service is reliable.
  • The service is fast, convenient, and free of charge.
  • The service is informal, without lacking in seriousness.
  • Cooperation is encouraged.
  • The parties are encouraged to participate, to express themselves about the situation, and to make decisions.
  • It encourages respect and effective communication among the participants.
  • The sessions are private and the proceedings are kept confidential.

 

 

What cases do mediators in the Conflict Mediation Centers handle?
  • commercial
  • community
  • family
  • mortgages or mortgage payments
  • interpersonal
  • workplace

Some examples of the types of disputes are:

  • collection of money
  • conflicts between neighbors
  • disputes between lessors and lessees
  • child support
  • claims for damages
  • visitation
Where are the Conflict Mediation Centers located?

The services are offered at the Conflict Mediation Centers located in all thirteen judicial regions around Puerto Rico.

For more information, you may contact the Conflict Mediation Center nearest to you or the Alternative Dispute Resolution Bureau, an administrative office that executes the public policy of the Judicial Branch concerning alternative dispute resolution methods. In addition, this office oversees the Conflict Mediation Centers in the Judicial Branch.

When are services offered?

Aguadilla

Municipal Court
(787) 819-5743

Aibonito

First floor of the Judicial Center
(787) 735-9179

Arecibo

Across from the Judicial Center
(787) 650-6407

Bayamón

Third floor of the Judicial Center
(787) 288-6133

Caguas

Second floor of the Judicial Center
(787) 653-1224

Carolina

First floor of the Judicial Center
(787) 776-4536

Fajardo

Second floor of the Judicial Center
(787) 655-0579

Guayama

Basement of the Judicial Center
(787) 686-2034

Humacao

First floor of the Judicial Center
(787) 656-0025

Mayagüez

Second floor of the Judicial Center
(787) 652-5585

Ponce

Basement of the Judicial Center
(787) 651-2351

San Juan

Basement of the Judicial Center
(787) 641-6107

Utuado

Second floor of the Judicial Center
(787) 894-6540