Alternative Dispute Resolution

ADR includes, but is not limited to: Mediation, Neutral Evaluation and Arbitration

1. Mediation
   Mediation is a process where a neutral person helps the parties communicate so they can settle the dispute themselves. The parties have a greater chance to participate than in a trial or arbitration. The Superior Court of California, County of Kern does not have a court mediator or neutral evaluator program.
2. Dispute Resolution Program Act
   The Superior Court of California, County of Kern does have a California Dispute Resolution Program Act (DRPA). Through DRPA, mediation services are provided the day of your settlement conference, hearing or trial in such cases as limited civil, unlawful detainer, civil harassment, family law, and guardianship.
3. Arbitration
   Arbitration is a process where a neutral person, rather than a judge or jury, conducts a hearing, receives evidence, and decides the outcome of the dispute. You can request Arbitration or the Judge can order Arbitration usually before the first case management statement is filed. Arbitration can be binding or non-binding. The Arbitrator will issue a written decision called an award. The arbitration award is final and is entered as the judgment in the case unless a party requests a trial. The Superior Court of California, County of Kern does use arbitrators in civil cases where the amount in controversy as to each individual plaintiff is $50,000 or less. See Local Rule 3.14.

The Kern County Superior Court is now accepting applications from attorneys who would like to be included on the Court-approved Mediator List. Interested candidates can apply here or can receive an application by contacting the ADR Coordinator.

Mediation Resources

1. Better Business Bureau
2. Kern County Bar Association
3. California Bar Association
4. California Department of Consumer Affairs – Mediation
5. Judicial Branch California Courts – ADR
6.  ADR Stipulation and Order Form
7. Kern County Superior Court ADR Information Packet

Arbitration Resources

1. Court-approved Arbitrator Panel
2. Judicial Branch California Courts - Arbitration Process
3. Email ADR Coordinator