One question I have is with this increase of mediation cases, I wonder if the mediators are volunteers or paid?

STOCKTON - As the San Joaquin County Superior Court gets ready to shut down its small-claims division Sept. 1, the Mediation Center of San Joaquin is ramping up its services for people looking to resolve disputes through a neutral mediator.

Officials announced last month the closure of small-claims court, a result of state budget cuts that have left a $2.5 billion deficit locally.

...The court also is encouraging persons involved in a dispute to consider settling arguments outside of court through mediation.

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