The LBA’s Mediation & Arbitration Program provides an alternative to traditional litigation for civil dispute. The offers mediation and arbitration services to LBA members and the public throughout Lancaster County.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) refers to the methods used to resolve legal disputes without going to court. ADR processes are typically faster, less formal, less expensive, and less stressful than traditional litigation.

• Mediation: Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which a neutral mediator assists the parties in resolving a dispute through communication, negotiation, and compromise. The mediator facilitates discussion, helps the parties identify issues and interests, and encourages mutually acceptable solutions. The mediator does not decide the outcome of the dispute. The parties retain control over the outcome, and any agreement reached through mediation is voluntary. Parties may be represented by legal counsel but are not required to have an attorney present. The mediator does not provide legal advice or act as an attorney or advocate for either party.
• Arbitration: Arbitration is a more formal alternative dispute resolution process in which a neutral arbitrator hears the evidence and arguments presented by the parties and issues a decision resolving the dispute. Unlike mediation, the arbitrator determines the outcome of the dispute. Under the LBA’s program, arbitration is binding, and the arbitrator’s decision is final and binding, subject to any rights of review or challenge provided by applicable law. Parties may be represented by legal counsel but are not required to have an attorney present. The arbitrator does not represent or advocate for any party and may not provide legal advice.

How to Get Started

The parties must first determine whether they wish to proceed through mediation or arbitration. The LBA will then provide the appropriate forms and assist with the process, including mediator or arbitrator selection and scheduling.

The initial filing fee is $1,150, which includes $950 for up to three hours of mediation or arbitration services and a $200 non-refundable administrative fee. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, the filing fee is divided equally between the parties. Additional fees may apply if additional time or expenses are required.

To learn more about the LBA Mediation & Arbitration Program or to initiate an ADR request, please contact Alayna at Alayna@lancasterbar.org.

Need space for mediation or arbitration?

• Mediation Bundle: $175 for 1/2 day | $300 for full day (Includes Board Room and Library)
• Arbitration Bundle: $400 for 1/2 day | $675 for full day (Includes Board Room, Library, Lower Level Conference Room & Lounge, and Small Conference Room)

For room rental information, contact Lexi at Lexi@lancasterbar.org.

Basic Mediation Training: 40 hrs total | 36 CEs with 4 CLE ethics hrs. (includes CCC)

• Dates: October 19-20, 22, 29 and November 2-3, 2026
• Location: High Foundation (Oct. 19-20), Virtual (Oct. 22,29), Lancaster Bar Foundation (Nov. 2-3)
• Register by Oct. 5, 2026 at: https://advoz.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/28479

This highly sought interactive training equips you to learn and apply the Facilitative Mediation Model with a co-mediator in a range of disputes including workplaces, families. landlord-tenants, neighbors, and more. Using high-impact experiential and simulation learning methods, Advoz trainers guide you and your cohort to understand conflict dynamics, what situations work or don’t work for mediation, and how to successfully facilitate conflicted parties through the process, with legal and ethical considerations for using the process in Pennsylvania.

 Sessions Include:

• Oct. 19 – in person: Fri, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM – Intro Course: Conflict, Communication & Culture
  Focus: Conflict styles and frameworks, mediation paradigm, bias & margins, mindful/empathic listening, working with interests vs. positions.
• Oct. 20 – in person: Sat, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
  Focus: Mediation models, resolution strategies, facilitative mediation observation, basic skills practice, mediation setup.
• Oct. 22 & 29 – online via Zoom: Thurs., 1–5 PM
  Focus: Practicing the mediation stages, conflict resolution skills, the pre-mediation session, and using virtual mediation.
• Nov. 2 – in person: Mon., 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
  Focus: Practicing the mediation stages, advanced skills, co-mediation techniques, confidentiality, facilitated agreements.
• Nov. 3 – in person: Tue., 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
  Focus: PA standards and ethics guidelines, advanced skills, full-process practice, skill integration.

Register here: https://advoz.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/28479