History

Carolina Dispute Settlement Services (CDSS) has its roots in the early formation of community mediation centers across the country. Many of these centers, CDSS included, were founded to address community concerns of overcrowded courts and an expressed need for finding alternative methods of managing conflict within communities.

Originally called Mediation Services of Wake, the center was founded as a non-profit community mediation center in 1983.  Trained and dedicated volunteers brought mediation and conciliation services to district criminal court, schools, and neighborhoods.  Educational programs were also developed to train community members in communication and conflict resolution skills that promoted peace and fairness.  As alternative dispute resolution methods gained acceptance in the court system, community, and among business professionals, pilot programs were created and program offerings became more varied.

In 2000, Mediation Services of Wake became Carolina Dispute Settlement Services.  The name change better reflects the wider array of services CDSS offers in North Carolina.  Today CDSS provides a comprehensive range of services and training programs all across our state. By partnering with alternative dispute resolution professionals, CDSS staff and panel members bring a high level of professionalism, experience and expertise to each case. Proud of our history as a community mediation center, CDSS continues to provide many services to low-income and indigent parties on a sliding scale representing its commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes at affordable prices.

CDSS has become the one-stop shop for alternative dispute resolution in North Carolina. We are keenly aware of the importance of identifying and assessing dispute resolution needs in order to bring knowledge, experience, objectivity, and sensitivity to the design and selection of appropriate alternative dispute resolution methods.