Navigating ADR in Housing Court

The Housing Court was a pioneer in the adoption of court-based alternative dispute resolution, with the passing of G.L. c. 185C sec. 16, which allowed the appointment of Housing Specialists, who act as trained mediators, working with both represented and self-represented litigants to resolve hundreds of cases filed annually. Housing Specialists are required to be “knowledgeable in the maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation of dwelling units; the problems of landlord and tenant as they pertain to dwelling units; the types of funds and services available to assist landlords and tenants in the financing and resolution of such problems; the federal and state laws, rules and regulations pertaining to the maintenance, repair and rehabilitation of such units; and the financing and resolution of such problems.” In addition, the Housing Court has also approved several agencies to assist parties with resolving more complex issues, including cases requiring specialized expertise in the areas of environmental hazards, zoning, and environmental litigation.

Learn the most important techniques for breaking impasses, creative problem solving, and obtaining resources to protect your client’s rights. Hear two expert practitioners, one from the landlord side and the other from the tenant side, together with a Housing Specialist, explore methods of successful mediation and negotiation, including creating clear and concise documents that reflect the parties’ resolution.