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In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vermont's mediation center has reported a significant uptick in cases as individuals and businesses seek to resolve disputes and conflicts that have arisen during and after the crisis. According to a recent report released by the center on August 30, 2025, there has been a 30% increase in the number of mediation cases compared to the same period last year.The pandemic has had profound effects on the economy, leading to job losses, financial struggles, and changes in how businesses operate. As a result, there has been a surge in disputes related to contract cancellations, lease agreements, employment issues, and consumer complaints. Many individuals and businesses have turned to mediation as a cost-effective and efficient way to resolve these conflicts outside of the traditional legal system."We have seen a steady increase in the demand for our mediation services over the past year as people navigate the challenges brought on by the pandemic," said Sarah Jenkins, the executive director of the Vermont Mediation Center. "Our mediators have been working tirelessly to help parties find mutually beneficial solutions and avoid costly and time-consuming litigation."In addition to the pandemic-related cases, the center has also seen a rise in family disputes, neighbor disagreements, and conflicts between landlords and tenants. The center attributes this increase to the heightened stress and tensions that many individuals have experienced during the pandemic, as well as the overall uncertainty that continues to linger in society.Mediation offers individuals and businesses a collaborative and confidential process to address their concerns and reach agreements that are tailored to their specific needs. Trained mediators facilitate discussions between parties, help identify common interests, and work towards finding solutions that are acceptable to all involved."We believe that mediation is more important now than ever as individuals and businesses seek to rebuild and move forward from the challenges of the past year," Jenkins added. "Our goal is to help parties find common ground and reach resolutions that set the stage for positive outcomes and improved relationships."As Vermont continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, the mediation center anticipates that the demand for its services will remain high. The center is committed to providing accessible, professional, and effective mediation services to individuals, businesses, and communities across the state.