Dispute Resolution

Mediation Services

Welcome to the California Civil Rights Department Dispute Resolution Division

The Dispute Resolution Division (DRD) of California’s Civil Rights Department (CRD) helps resolve civil rights disputes by providing mediation for a wide range of complaints. Trained, neutral mediators assist the parties, whose participation is voluntary.

Each year, DRD resolves hundreds of civil rights complaints through mediation. Our trained mediators mediate complaints within CRD’s jurisdiction. These mediations result in millions of dollars in direct relief for impacted Californians and often include changes to policies, procedures, or practices that further the goals of California’s civil rights laws.

DRD may accept a pending complaint for mediation at any stage of the process—from shortly after a complaint is filed and served through an internal appeal challenging the closure of a complaint. DRD does not charge the parties for its mediation services.

In addition to mediating disputes between individuals, DRD houses the Community Conflict Resolution Unit (CCRU), which provides mediation, facilitation, training, and other conflict resolution services to address community conflicts that threaten peaceful community relations.

For more information about DRD’s services, eligibility, and mediation process, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page: FAQS