CITIZEN'S DISPUTE SETTLEMENT (CDS) PROGRAM

When people are not able to solve their own problems, the Citizen Dispute Settlement (CDS) Program offers a viable alternative. Whatever the problem with your neighbor, friend, family member, house mate, landlord/tenant, employer/employee, merchant/customer, etc., WE CAN HELP!

The Citizen Dispute Settlement Program is a FREE court alternative program under the direction of the Court Administrator's Office. Its purpose is to help disputing parties negotiate mutually beneficial solutions to their problems with the aid of a mediator. Problems addressed in this program include: landlord/tenant disputes, conflicts between neighbors, consumer/business problems and disputes between individuals that may not be covered under a specific law.

About Citizen Dispute Settlement

• We are professionally trained volunteers in mediation, communication and conflict resolution techniques.
• We handle problems only when all of the parties choose to participate.
• We operate under the Administrative Office of the Courts.
• Our track record: 85% of our mediation hearings result in agreements. 80% of the agreements are maintained after the hearings.

How Does It Work?

It takes about 10 days from the time the program coordinator hears the complaint until a hearing is scheduled. In an informal atmosphere, both sides have the opportunity to tell their stories. The mediator's role is to act as a neutral third party and as a guide to help the parties reach an agreement that best meets their needs. It is a voluntary process and no one is obligated to sign an agreement. There is no charge for our services because the program is staffed mainly by volunteers. The hearings are set at a time most convenient for the parties. If we are unable to help you resolve your dispute, you can then pursue legal action.

Program Benefits

• No charge to participate and no lawyer needed.
• Voluntary.
• Convenient.
• Private and informal.
• Participants are heard, can negotiate and devise their own solutions.
• Relieves over-burdened law enforcement, legal and court personnel.
• Cooperation with other agencies and services.
• Utilizes trained volunteers and is cost-effective.

Contact Information

FORT MYERS OFFICE

Lee County Justice Center
1700 Monroe St
Fort Myers, FL, 33901
Phone: 239-533-1595
Fax: 239-485-1014

CHARLOTTE COUNTY OFFICE

Charlotte County Justice Center
350 E Marion Ave
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Phone: 941-637-2317