In some cases, before a hearing is scheduled, the hearing examiner in charge of the case may schedule a mediation session.  Mediation may also be a voluntary option for any individuals within the vehicle-for-hire industry that seek to resolve any conflicts between other industry members. The mediator helps the parties to reach a mutually acceptable settlement of the case.  All hearing examiners are qualified to mediate any case before the DC Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV).

If mandated by the presiding judge, he/she may issue a Mediation Order that requires both parties to attend a mediation session (but not to settle the case).  An Agreement to Mediate will be provided to the parties prior to mediation. If two parties seek voluntary mediation, they can obtain a sample Agreement to Mediate form to complete via online or in-person at the DFHV. There may be one or more mediation sessions.  If an agreement is reached, only the agreed-to terms will be put into writing.  If the case is not resolved by mediation, the case will return to the judge assigned to the case for a hearing. 

Mediation sessions are confidential and the mediator will not share with the judge in charge of the case any information that came out in a mediation session. 

Mediation sessions are held at 2235 Shannon Place SE, Suite 2032, which is near the “Big Chair” in Anacostia. The building itself is on the road behind the large parking lot on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. The building is about a 10 minute walk from the Anacostia Metro Station. Mediation service business hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Please be aware that there is limited street parking available.

DFHV – Agreement to Mediate (sample)