University Ombudsman

Before taking any legal action, seek out an experienced Ombudsman. The word ombudsman dates back to 1809 when the Swedish Parliament created a new official known as the Justitie-Ombudsman, referring to public officials appointed to investigate citizen complaints against governmental agencies. Ombudsman loosely translates as citizen defender or representative of the people.

The University ombudsman is helpful when:
1) Uncertain about which policy, procedure, or regulation applies to your situation.

2) Unfairly or inequitably treated or that a policy, procedure, or regulation has been applied unfairly or erroneously, or is itself fundamentally unfair.

3) If a problem that requires someone to help negotiate a solution, or to help facilitate your communication with others.

4) Would like to find out who has the authority to make an exception to a rule or policy.

5) Want to know the right person or office to whom to direct a formal complaint or grievance.

University Ombudsman is a designated neutral person who provides confidential and informal assistance in resolving University conflicts. The University Ombudsman investigates complaints, reports findings, and helps mediate fair settlements, especially between an individuals or group of individuals; and an institution or organizations.

The University Ombudsman will:
Listen to complaints
Answer questions
Analyze situations
Explain policies and procedures
Provide information and advice
Explore solutions
Help untangle bureaucratic red tape
Suggest appropriate referrals
Assist in pursuing a resolution
Inform administration of significant trends
Recommend changes in policies and procedures

The University Ombudsman does not advocate for any side in a conflict. The role of the University Ombudsman is to identify potential areas of conflict, wrongdoing, administrative abuse and provides information on individual rights. The University Ombudsman provides an opportunity for informal discussion of problems outside formal channels.

Visit the Ombudsman Directory www.locateombudsman.com to find University Ombudsman in your area.

Avoid Court Action with University Mediation

When negotiations and ombudsman efforts do not achieve the desired results, conflict can still be settled without court action. The legal process is Alternative Dispute Resolution which includes ombudsman.  Also, known as Mediation and Arbitration. University Mediation and University Arbitration are cheaper, quick and less adversarial than court action. Mediation and Arbitration are legally enforceable in the United States, European Union and Asia. Individuals or business can utilize University Mediation and University Arbitration as an out-of-court settlement process to avoid lawyer and court costs.

University Mediation vs. University Arbitration

Difference between University Mediation and University Arbitration is straightforward. University Mediation is voluntary. Parties mutually agree upon a fair dispute settlement. University Arbitration is mandatory. Arbitrator issues an arbitration award which is final. University Arbitration is quicker and cheaper than court lawsuit. Arbitration clauses are contained in many legal contracts and business agreements. Before seeking Arbitration, try to settle your dispute with University Mediation. The major disadvantage with University Arbitration is: The Arbitration Award is Final. Further legal action in Court is not permitted. In University Mediation, if parties do not reach settlement, both University Arbitration and court action remain as options.

Find University Mediator click here Locate Mediator Directory

Find University Arbitrator click here Locate Arbitrator Directory

Hiring University Lawyer is necessary when your University dispute involves punitive damages, physical injury or high dollar compensatory amounts. These dispute cases are best handled with a University Lawyer. Lawyer can represent clients in mediation and arbitration. Find University Lawyer click here Locate Lawyer Directory