An effective referral system ensures a close relationship between all levels of the alternative dispute resolution system and helps to ensure clients receive the best possible care. Its main goal is to improve and streamline communication among negotiators, mediators, or arbitrators involved in facilitating resolving the dispute. The term “referral” can describe both to the act of sending you to another mediator or arbitrator. And it can describe the actual paper authorizing your visit.
The role of The Paula Stephenson Group dispute resolution staff are to quickly establish rapport and trust, gather as much information as possible. And our role is to work collaboratively with parties to clarify issues that require dispute resolution and to develop an appropriate Plan of Action to address these concerns. Dispute resolution staff place specific emphasis on the assessment of high-risk situations, such as abuse, neglect, and other high-conflict incidents.
All referrals are addressed by the close of business. The Paula Stephenson Group invests in efficiently meeting the needs of those we serve. The requesting party must complete an intake form. The responding party must complete a submission form. This is not a legal process and parties are strongly encouraged to seek legal counsel. Representatives of either party must complete an Agent declaration form. Any party without representation must complete a Pro Se declaration form.
State law mandates that I report to the appropriate authorities suspected cases of child abuse/neglect, elder, 65 or older, abuse/neglect, or disabled abuse/neglect. Moreover, instances of danger to self or others when reasonably necessary to protect the client or other parties from a clear and imminent threat of serious physical harm.
The Paula Stephenson Group 