If you are involved in a dispute with a customer, we recommend that you consult your attorney about trying mediation before resorting to arbitration or litigation (lawsuit).

Mediation is a private, confidential meeting where a neutral person called a mediator helps individuals sort out issues and negotiate an agreement that is mutually acceptable. The mediator does not take sides or decide the outcome of the meeting. Mediation usually requires less time and money than arbitration or litigation. The success rate can be as high as 85% depending on the type of dispute and relationship of the parties. The parties can proceed to arbitration or litigation if the mediation is unsuccessful.

If the dispute is complex, your attorney may recommend arbitration instead of mediation.

Arbitration is a private, confidential process where a neutral person called an arbitrator acts as a fact finder and issues a decision after hearing testimony and reviewing evidence. The decision is usually not binding unless the parties have agreed to make it binding.

Jonathan Corbett, MBA, is a certified mediator who specializes in mediations requiring less than a day. Jonathan grew up in a construction family and is a licensed general building contractor in addition to holding insurance and real estate broker’s licenses. His mediation services include telephone conferences and on-site or office meetings. The easiest way to reach Jonathan is to leave a message with our receptionist at (530) 419-2000 or send an e-mail to
Jonathan@corbett-insurance.com.

ArbitrationWorks, Inc. (“AWI”) has provided mediation and arbitration services for over 6,000 construction disputes statewide. Their panel members include experienced mediators, construction experts, and attorneys who can handle complex disputes involving millions of dollars. AWI’s Web site address is www.arbitrationworks.com.

There are many other individuals and firms offering private mediation and arbitration services. Ask your attorney for a recommendation or check phonebook and Internet listings.

In addition to the individuals and firms offering private services, the Contractors State License Board offers an arbitration program for disputes involving damages between $7,500 and $50,000. The Board’s Web site address is www.cslb.ca.gov.