Thursday, February 19, 2009

In order to increase efficiency and resolve conflicts between consumers and businesses, Attorney General Steve Six today unveiled his new Consumer Mediation Program. It was developed to work though common consumer problems and obtain refunds and restitution without the need for legal action.

"Through my new Mediation Program, we can return money to consumers without stepping foot in a courtroom," Six said. "This program will help us efficiently assist Kansas consumers while saving on the cost of expensive litigation."

Mediation is a voluntary process by which two or more parties agree to meet with a court-approved, neutral third party or mediator to resolve disputes through discussion, negotiation and problem solving. The parties involved in the dispute determine the solution to their conflict with the assistance of the mediator.

The program offers parties who have filed a complaint with the Consumer Protection Division an opportunity to try to resolve their conflict through mediation instead of litigation. The program helps preserve relationships between consumers and businesses and seeks fair conflict resolution for all parties.

"My new Mediation Program will limit costs for all parties and speed up the process of resolving conflicts between consumers and businesses," Six said. "Mediation can play a key role in solving consumer problems and saving state resources."

As Attorney General, Six refocused the Consumer Protection Division on enforcing consumer protection laws, educating consumers and developing a balanced approach to working with Kansas businesses. He is also focusing on mediation, swift complaint resolution and ensuring Kansas's businesses can compete on a level playing field.