In an effort to alleviate the backlog of cases in Michigan's court system and provide more efficient resolution of disputes, the state has implemented a new mediation program effective February 20, 2026.The Michigan Mediation Program will allow parties involved in civil, family, and probate cases to voluntarily participate in mediation sessions facilitated by trained mediators. The goal of the program is to effectively resolve conflicts outside of the courtroom, saving time and resources for both the parties involved and the court system.Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, John Doe, expressed his enthusiasm for the new program, stating, "Mediation is a proven method for resolving disputes in a timely and cost-effective manner. We believe that by offering mediation as an option, we can help alleviate the strain on our court system and provide parties with a more collaborative and personalized approach to resolving their conflicts."The Michigan Mediation Program will be available to parties at various stages of their legal proceedings, from pre-filing to post-judgment. Mediation sessions will be conducted either in person or virtually, depending on the preference of the parties involved.Parties who choose to participate in the mediation program will have the opportunity to work with a neutral third-party mediator who will help facilitate discussions, clarify issues, and guide the parties towards mutually acceptable solutions. The confidentiality of the mediation process will also be maintained to encourage open and honest communication.The Michigan Mediation Program is expected to benefit both the court system and the residents of Michigan by providing a more efficient and effective means of resolving disputes. It is hoped that the program will help reduce the backlog of cases in the court system and improve access to justice for all parties involved.Parties interested in participating in the Michigan Mediation Program can contact their local court or visit the Michigan Courts website for more information on how to get started.