About Online Mediation

What is Online Mediation?

To improve the accessibility of mediation for everyone on Oahu, the Mediation Center of the Pacific has implemented the Online Mediation Program (OMP). OMP is different from video conferencing mediation, which is available to resolve all types of disputes. Through OMP, participants exchange messages through a secure text-based chat system.

If you are interested in mediating through video conferencing (e.g., Zoom) mediation, please refer to the Mediation page.

Online Mediation Program

Online Mediation Program does not use video conferencing; it is entirely conducted through text. Available for access 24/7, the Online Mediation Program allows participants to address conflict quickly and conveniently by mediating through MCP’s private, text-based online platform. You access your mediation through your browser, meaning you can use a laptop, desktop, smart phone, or any other mobile device with access to the internet.

Unlike traditional mediation, participants can log on at times and in places that are convenient to them. Communication is asynchronous: conversation is spread over several instances rather than one long session. Participants don’t see each other and there is no pressure to respond immediately.

The Online Mediation Program is especially recommended for landlord-tenant cases (including evictions and security deposits), repairs, contract disputes under $5000, and roommate disagreements.