The California Assembly Judiciary Committee, led by Chair Kalra, proposes new parameters for court-ordered mediation in civil cases through legislation that raises the maximum amount in controversy from $50,000 to $75,000 beginning January 1, 2027.
The measure establishes specific prerequisites before courts may order mediation: cases must have a trial date set, at least one party must express interest in mediation, and no ongoing discovery disputes may exist. Parties receive notification of their right to select a mutually agreeable mediator and may opt for remote mediation sessions upon joint agreement. If parties cannot agree on a mediator within 15 days, the court appoints one at no cost using Judicial Council standards.
Under the new framework, mediation must conclude with either an agreement or formal statement of non-agreement at least 120 days before trial, maintaining the original trial schedule. The determination of amount in controversy excludes consideration of liability questions, defenses, or comparative negligence, and does not prejudice subsequent case value findings. Until January 2027, the current $50,000 threshold remains in effect without these additional procedural requirements.
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The California Assembly Judiciary Committee, led by Chair Kalra, proposes new parameters for court-ordered mediation in civil cases through legislation that raises the maximum amount in controversy from $50,000 to $75,000 beginning January 1, 2027.
The measure establishes specific prerequisites before courts may order mediation: cases must have a trial date set, at least one party must express interest in mediation, and no ongoing discovery disputes may exist. Parties receive notification of their right to select a mutually agreeable mediator and may opt for remote mediation sessions upon joint agreement. If parties cannot agree on a mediator within 15 days, the court appoints one at no cost using Judicial Council standards.
Under the new framework, mediation must conclude with either an agreement or formal statement of non-agreement at least 120 days before trial, maintaining the original trial schedule. The determination of amount in controversy excludes consideration of liability questions, defenses, or comparative negligence, and does not prejudice subsequent case value findings. Until January 2027, the current $50,000 threshold remains in effect without these additional procedural requirements.
| Ayes | Noes | NVR | Total | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75 | 0 | 4 | 79 | PASS |
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