Mediation (Greenville, Kershaw, Lexington, Richland)

In four counties if you request a jury trial in your eviction case, your case will be sent to mediation first. 

Mediation is a process where both parties meet with an independent, neutral third party, called a "mediator," to try to work out their differences voluntarily.  Attendance at the mediation is not voluntary.  Both you and the landlord must mediate. 

However, you are not required to reach an agreement at mediation.  The only requirement is that you mediate in good faith.  This means that you mediate with the goal of trying to find common ground and reach a resolution. 

If you do not reach a resolution at mediation, but you negotiate in good faith, you will not be penalized.  But you should not approach mediation with the attitude that you are going to refuse any proposed resolution whatsoever.