Overview

Settlement facilitation is an opportunity to achieve a voluntary resolution of the dispute. 

The parties meet with a neutral facilitator(s), together with their counsel or as self-represented litigants. During the conference, each party’s position and interest are heard, the nature of the case is discussed, and possible solutions are considered. Settlement facilitation is confidential.

Settlement facilitation is available for civil and family cases. Facilitators include retired and sitting judges, attorneys, counselors, accountants, and other qualified professionals. A fee is generally charged by the facilitators.

Settlement facilitation is generally a single half-day or full-day session. The facilitator(s) focus on the legal issues before the court, evaluate the case, and address more narrow issues. In a private session with each side, a settlement facilitator may address the strengths and weaknesses of that party’s position.

Mediation or Settlement Facilitation?

Both programs are similar: A neutral meets with the parties, legal advice is not given, the process is confidential, and the parties determine their own resolution.

Settlement facilitation is generally is single session, where the facilitator(s) focuses on the legal issues before the court, evaluates the case, and addresses more narrow issues.

Mediation is generally a more comprehensive process, where the mediator(s) focuses on problem-solving by the parties of the issues presented in the court case as well as any underlying or related issues.

Settlement Facilitation Resources

Additional Resources

Contact Information

Address
400 Lomas Blvd. NW
Located in Room 134, First Floor
Albuquerque, NM 87102

Phone: 505-841-6702 or 505-841-7579

Email: albdselfhelp@nmcourts.gov

General Hours

The self-help window is open with limited staff at the Courthouse.
Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Self-Help Interview Hours
15-minute interviews are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Come early and be prepared to wait. Please do not bring small children.