There are times that individuals come into the criminal justice system charged with a variety of misdemeanor offenses such as trespass, harassment, or violation of animal control or noise ordinances for situations that have arisen amongst neighbors. These neighborhood disputes can become quite serious in their effect on the individuals' quality of life and enjoyment of their property. However, rather than go forward with a criminal prosecution that will undoubtedly leave ill will between parties who live in the same area as well as a criminal record for one party, this office began the mediation program. The program involves screening cases that may be appropriate for mediation and referring them to a local organization where these individuals can work out their problems with a neutral facilitator and, thus, reach an amicable agreement. The State's Attorney's Office refers these cases, with consent of the parties, to the Community Mediation Center of Calvert County which is conveniently located in Prince Frederick. Mediation is free and confidential with the date/time/location of the mediation scheduled at the partys' convenience. Their website, for further information, is www.calvert-mediation.org .