SLCRLJ 40(g).
                          MANDATORY MEDIATION FOR SMALL CLAIMS COURT


    Mediation is mandatory before a trial is allowed in Small Claims Court. Mediation is
held at the first scheduled appearance date unless continued by the court for good cause.
Both parties must attend the mediation. If the plaintiff fails to appear, a dismissal may
be entered. If the defendant fails to appear, their answer, if one was filed, may be
stricken and default judgment entered. Parties may bring their evidence to the mediation,
however, no witnesses are allowed. The purpose of mediation is to settle the case if possible;
if no settlement is made at mediation, the case will be set for trial. Attorneys and
paralegals may not represent parties at mediation.


[Formerly SLRCRLJ 40 (g) adopted effective September 1, 1999; amended effective September 1, 2012]