Quality mediation service at a very modest cost is now available to residents of the District of Columbia. DC Refers, an online collective of highly qualified DC area lawyers, now offers individuals of modest means the opportunity to resolve disputes with other persons, groups of people, or a company with the help of an experienced mediator acting as a neutral facilitator. All DC Refers participating mediators agree to fees ranging from $75-150 per hour, significantly less than standard mediation fees.

“The new DC Refers mediation referral service is a huge win for D.C. consumers. D.C. residents of modest means can now afford to hire a mediator to help find solutions to legal problems without costly and time-consuming litigation,” says lawyer-mediator Karen Evans, of the Cochran Firm. “This is a great addition to the low-cost legal services already offered by DC Refers. The goal of mediation is to achieve a solution that all participants can agree to, avoiding the expense, uncertainty, and delays of litigation. Mediators have no vested interest in the outcome.” Mediators are trained to help participants engage in a mutually respectful discussion that allows all involved to express their views in an even-handed, equitable manner to seek solutions to disputes.

All mediators are screened by DC Refers to ensure they have at least 40 hours of mediation training, have at least two years of relevant experience, and have positive professional and client references. Individuals eligible for reduced fee mediation services through DC Refers must have a matter  in DC and must be in the income range that is 200-400% above federal poverty guidelines.  DC Refers mediators are also available to mediate cases at their regular rates where persons do not qualify for reduced rates.

DC Refers provides an online directory of prescreened mediators at: www.dcrefers.org.

DC Refers also provides listings for vetted lawyers to represent individuals of modest means. These lawyers are members in good standing of the D.C. Bar or the appropriate federal forum; maintain malpractice insurance; have a minimum of two years of experience: and have provided their professional and client references that are reviewed and verified by DC Refers.