The mission of the DRC is to facilitate the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The fee scale used by the Center makes mediation services available to all at affordable rates. The Dispute Resolution Center / Central Brazos Valley, Inc. (DRC) is a private, non-profit, tax exempt 501 (c) (3) corporation established under the laws of Texas on September 13, 1997.

HISTORY

From a groundswell of community interest, and with the encouragement of the League of Women Voters of Brazos County, an initial organizational committee was formed representing political units in the area, the justice system, social agencies and individuals committed to mediation as an alternative method for settling disputes. This committee elected a board of directors charged with organization of the center. Other interested citizens were included as members of an advisory board. The board of directors established the Dispute Resolution Center under the provision of Texas law established in the Alternative Dispute Resolution and Procedures act. The Center continues under that act as well as provisions in the Family Code and the Civil Procedures and Remedies Code. Many cases are come by court order from our district or county courts. Others are referred by attorneys who suggest that their clients try mediation first. People also choose to mediate problems at the DRC without attorneys. All sorts of civil and family cases are welcome.

First, call the DRC to speak with a representative who will ask a few brief questions to identify the case type. Be prepared to give a short summary of the dispute and the persons involved. If mediation is appropriate an appointment for mediation will be made. The DRC willcontact theother parties encouraging themto participate if they choose. The DRC will advise of any fees.

Intake Process

The intake process begins when a person contacts the DRC with a problem or complaint. A staff person or volunteer mediator will listen to the individual's problem in order to determine if the complaint is appropriate for mediation. Sometimes people may need legal, psychological, emergency services, or other forms of assistance instead of or in addition to mediation. For example, in a divorce case, mediation through theDRC may be a viable option, but the parties may also need outside assistance. The DRC also receives cases ordered by the courts of Brazos County. This intake is handled by the DRC staff.

Following is a list of CASE TYPES as categorized by DRC.

Commercial Relations

• Used car transactions
• New car transactions
• Car repairs
• Insurance companies
• Home and furniture repair
• Consumer purchase of other goods or services
• Professional/client
• Real estate
• Others not listed

Domestic Relations

• Divorce (court-ordered and not court-ordered)
• Visitation/child support (court-ordered and not court-ordered)
• Boyfriend/girlfriend
• Parent/child/siblings
• Roommates
• Other domestic relations

Law Suits

• Injury or damage with a motor vehicle
• Injury or damage without a motor vehicle
• Workers' compensation
• Tax matters
• Condemnation
• Note
• Will disputes
• Other court suits

Other Types

• Employer/employee
• Friends not in same household
• Juvenile/victim
• Neighbors/neighborhood
• Probate court matters
• Tenant/landlord
• Teacher/student
• Others not listed

Develop better communication skills, learn negotiation techniques, and strengthen your problem- solving skills! Mediation training is offered by the Center as a service to the community. This training is offered several times a year. Call the Center for more information, (979) 822-6947.