2011 California Conference on Self- Represented Litigants Jeniffer Alcantara, Esq. Malea Chavez, Esq. Alejandra Siroka
Dec 26, 2015
2011 California Conference on Self-Represented Litigants
Jeniffer Alcantara, Esq.Malea Chavez, Esq.
Alejandra Siroka
Introductions- Part 1 Jeniffer Alcantara, Esq.
Alternative Dispute Resolution AdministratorStaff Attorney, San Francisco Superior CourtMediator, San Francisco Superior Court
Malea ChavezStaff Attorney, ACCESS Civil Self-help CenterMediator, Self-Represented Litigants Mediation Program
Alejandra SirokaCommunication ConsultantFederal and California Certified Court InterpreterFaculty at SF State University Legal Interpreting
Certification ProgramProfessional Division Director, California Federation of
Interpreters
Learning ObjectivesCreate awareness of common issues related to
Spanish speakers in mediation
Understand key mediation principles and goals which may not be achieved with a Spanish speaker if attention is not paid to some of these points
Have an understanding of how Spanish speakers make decisions and solve problems
Conduct mediations that are culturally appropriate and competent when working with Spanish speaking participants.
AgreementsCell phones on silent or offActive participation is encouragedOne speaker at a timeEveryone’s input is valid and
importantRespect differences
Different Types of MediationsCivil vs. CriminalCase TypeFee StructureMediator BackgroundMandatory vs. VoluntaryMediation Style
Intercultural Communication & Working With Interpreters
in a MediationWho is in the room?What is the mediator’s role?What are the participants’ roles?Do you have informed consent?
Administrative LensProgram Development
Needs AssessmentImplementationPartnerships
Community-Based Organizations
Recruitment & TrainingVolunteersBilingual Preference
OutreachHow to educate and inform Spanish Speakers
about the mediation process?
Signage in the Clerk’s OfficeNotices at FilingsEducational flyersThe ACCESS “pitch” Outreach clinics
Malea Chavez, [email protected]
www.sfsuperiorcourt.org
Jeniffer Alcantara, [email protected]
Alejandra [email protected] www.languagealchemy.com