Saunders Mediation

Find a Mediator in Maryland: How to Use the MACRO/MPME Directory (Step-by-Step)

Originally published: October 2025 | Reviewed by Don Saunders

The MACRO/MPME Directory is Maryland’s statewide online tool for locating certified mediators. 

It lists professionals across counties, case types, and specialties, ensuring residents have access to qualified, court-recognized services.

Maryland offers a wide range of mediation services. You’ll find both court programs and private mediators here.

MACRO is the Maryland Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office. They work diligently to promote alternative dispute resolution throughout the state.

This office partners with the Maryland Program for Mediator Excellence (MPME). Together, they keep a solid database of trained mediators.

Got a family matter? Or a business dispute or community conflict? The online mediator directory makes it surprisingly easy to find someone qualified nearby.

This guide walks you through using the directory so you can connect with the right mediator for your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • The MPME online directory lets you search for Maryland mediators by county, dispute type, or name—totally free.
  • You can check out mediator profiles to see their experience, fees, and approach before reaching out.
  • The directory lists private practitioners, court mediators, and community volunteers for a wide range of disputes and issues.

What Is the MACRO/MPME Mediator Directory?

What Is the MACRO/MPME Mediator Directory?

The MACRO/MPME Mediator Directory serves as Maryland’s official online database for qualified mediators. MACRO stands for the Maryland Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office.

MPME is the Maryland Program for Mediator Excellence. Together, they maintain Maryland’s most comprehensive list of mediators.

Key Features

You get several search options in the directory:

  • County-based searches – Find mediators in your area
  • Dispute category filters – Match mediators to your type of case
  • Name searches – Look up specific practitioners
  • Specialty areas – Find mediators with certain expertise

Types of Mediators Listed

Here’s who you’ll find in the directory:

Mediator TypeDescription
Private practitionersIndependent mediators who charge fees
Court roster mediatorsApproved for court-connected cases
Community volunteersOffer free or low-cost services
Specialty mediatorsFocus on business, healthcare, or other areas

Important Limitations

The directory doesn’t equal an endorsement by MACRO, MPME, or the Maryland Judiciary. It’s on you to verify each mediator’s qualifications.

Always confirm fees, experience, and approach before hiring anyone. The directory just helps you start your search for the right professional.

If you’re ready to get started, call us now!

Why It Matters

Finding the right mediator can make or break a dispute resolution process. The MACRO/MPME directory gives you a trustworthy way to connect with qualified professionals in Maryland.

Cost Savings

Mediation usually costs way less than going to court. People often save thousands by settling through mediation instead of litigation.

Time Efficiency

Court cases can drag on forever. Mediation often concludes in a few weeks or even days.

Quality Control

The directory only lists mediators who have received specific training and have relevant experience. That helps you avoid the amateurs.

Specialized Expertise

Every dispute is different. The directory allows you to search by dispute type, enabling you to find someone who can address your issue.

Key Benefits:

  • Faster resolution than the court
  • Lower costs than a lawsuit
  • Confidential process keeps things private
  • Flexible scheduling for everyone involved
  • Better relationships—mediation can keep things civil

Impartial Guidance

Mediators stay neutral during the process. They don’t pick sides or make decisions for you.

Voluntary Process

You keep control over the outcome. You can accept or reject any proposal during mediation.

The official directory connects you with professionals who adhere to high standards and ethics.

Step 1: Access the Online Directory

The Maryland Program for Mediator Excellence (MPME) website has the official online mediator directory. This tool helps you connect with qualified mediators throughout the state.

Visit the Maryland Courts website and search for the online mediator directory. It’s a fast way to search for mediators in your area.

Key Features:

The directory runs 24/7. You can use it on any device with internet access.

Before hiring anyone, verify the essential details. MPME recommends confirming fees, experience, and mediation style directly with the mediator.

Important Note: The directory doesn’t mean the Maryland courts endorse any particular mediator. You’ve got to do your homework.

The search interface provides several filter options—narrow down your results by what you need and where you are.

There are other directories, like those from MCDR or professional groups. Still, the MPME directory is the main official resource for court-connected mediators in Maryland.

Step 2: Select Your Case Type

The Maryland mediator directory lets you search by dispute type. That way, you find mediators who actually have experience with your kind of issue.

Common case types include:

  • Family disputes – Divorce, custody, child support
  • Civil matters – Contract problems, property disagreements
  • Business conflicts – Partnership issues, employment stuff
  • Community disputes – Neighbor feuds, HOA troubles

Select the category that best fits your situation. The system will display mediators who specialize in these types of cases.

Some mediators handle several types of cases. Others focus on a single area, such as family law or business disputes.

Tips for selecting case type:

  • Choose the most specific category you can
  • If you’re not sure, start broader
  • Think about whether your dispute is personal or business-related

The online Mediator Directory lets you search by category and county. That makes finding a good match a lot easier.

You can also search without picking a case type, but selecting one helps you get more relevant results.

Each mediator’s profile lists the types of cases they handle. Take a look before you reach out.

Step 3: Filter by Location and Availability

The MPME online directory lets you narrow your search by county. That way, you can find mediators who work nearby—pretty handy if you don’t want to drive across the state.

Location Filtering Options:

Filter TypeDescription
CountySelect specific Maryland counties
Multiple CountiesChoose mediators who serve several areas
StatewideFind mediators available across Maryland

You can pick your county from a dropdown menu. The system then shows mediators who actually practice there.

Some mediators work in multiple counties. Others stick to just one spot. The directory spells this out pretty clearly.

Checking Availability:

Mediators list their general availability in their profiles. They’ll note if they’re taking new cases.

Note: The directory only shows general availability. You’ll need to contact the mediator directly to nail down specific dates or times.

Additional Location Considerations:

  • Virtual mediation: Lots of mediators now offer online sessions.
  • Travel distance: Some are willing to travel to different locations.
  • Court proximity: It’s worth thinking about mediators near the courthouse you need.

The Maryland court system encourages you to confirm details with the mediator yourself. That includes their current availability and where they’ll actually travel.

After you filter by location, the directory narrows the list. It’s much easier to identify the right mediators in your area.

Step 4: Review Mediator Profiles

Once you’ve got a list of potential mediators from the Maryland Program for Mediator Excellence directory, it’s time to dig into their profiles. 

Each listing shares important details about its background and what it has to offer.

Key Information to Review:

  • Experience level – How many years they’ve been mediating
  • Specialization areas – Types of disputes they work with
  • Training credentials – Education and certifications
  • Contact information – Phone, email, office location
  • Fee structure – Hourly rates or flat fees

The profiles indicate the types of cases each mediator handles. Some focus on family stuff, others handle business or property issues.

Training and Credentials

Look for mediators with solid training from reputable programs. The Maryland Council for Dispute Resolution offers performance-based certification, which is a good sign.

Many mediators list additional qualifications, such as law degrees or experience in counseling. Depending on your case, those can come in handy.

Making Contact

You can reach out using the contact info in the profile. Most mediators offer a complimentary initial consultation to discuss your situation and their approach.

Subject matter knowledge might matter to you—or not. Some people want an expert in their field, while others care more about the mediator’s process skills.

Finding the right fit matters. Let Saunders Mediation simplify the family mediation process, saving you time and stress. Contact us now to schedule.

If you’re ready to get started, call us now!

Step 5: Contact and Schedule Your Mediator

Once you’ve picked a mediator, don’t wait—reach out and get your session on the calendar. Quick, clear communication really helps here.

Initial Contact Requirements

Contact your chosen mediator within 30 days of assignment. For court cases, you need to reach out within 15 days after being assigned a new mediator.

What to Discuss During First Contact

TopicDetails to Cover
AvailabilityPreferred dates and times
FeesHow much it’ll cost and how to pay
FormatIn-person or remote mediation
DurationHow long do sessions usually run

Scheduling Your Session

The mediator works with everyone to find a date that fits. Responding promptly makes the process smoother for all parties involved.

Important Timing Note

If you don’t contact the mediator in time, they’ll just pick a date without your input. That means you lose control over the schedule.

Preparing for the Call

Before you call, jot down any questions you have about the process. Keep your calendar handy so you’re ready to talk dates.

Remote Options Available

Many centers now offer remote mediation. Ask about video conferencing if that works better for you.

After you schedule, the mediator will guide you through the next steps.

Benefits of Using the MACRO/MPME Directory

Benefits of Using the MACRO/MPME Directory

The Maryland Program for Mediator Excellence (MPME) online directory makes it easier to find mediation services.

Easy Search Options

You can search by county, dispute type, or mediator name. The system’s pretty straightforward, so you don’t have to dig around for what you need.

Active Practitioners Only

The directory only lists mediators with active practices who are open to new cases. No dead ends—just people actually available to help.

Quality Focus

MPME supports mediators in Maryland to keep their skills sharp. Members receive resources and encouragement to support ongoing growth.

Wide Range of Mediators

The program lists:

  • Private practitioners
  • Court mediation staff
  • Community volunteer mediators
  • Roster mediators

Free Public Resource

The directory is available for public use at no cost. You can view detailed info about mediators without paying just to search.

Saunders Mediation: Your Trusted Maryland Resource

Saunders Mediation serves all of Maryland, drawing on decades of combined experience. 

They focus on family, civil, business, and probate disputes, and offer both in-person and remote sessions—so you’ve got options.

Why Choose Saunders Mediation

Don Saunders brings over 30 years of experience as a Supreme Court-certified mediator. He handles a wide range of disputes, including family conflicts, business disagreements, and probate matters.

The practice offers civil mediation services in Annapolis for contract disputes, property matters, and partnership conflicts.

All sessions stay confidential. You’ll get court-recognized solutions every time.

Key Services Include:

  • Family mediation and divorce disputes
  • Business and partnership conflicts
  • Civil contract disagreements
  • Probate and estate matters

You can schedule a free consultation by phone, email, or through the online form. Saunders Mediation serves clients across Maryland and offers flexible scheduling.

Saunders Mediation stays certified through Maryland’s court system. They make sure every session meets state requirements and produces legally binding agreements when necessary.

Ready to move forward? Saunders Mediation offers compassionate workplace mediation across Maryland. Reach out today to discuss your case and schedule a confidential mediation session.

Contact Us Today For An Appointment

    Frequently Asked Questions 

    What is the MACRO/MPME Directory?

    The MACRO/MPME Directory is Maryland’s official online database of certified mediators. It allows residents to search by case type, location, and specialization, ensuring access to trained professionals for disputes such as family, civil, probate, workplace, and small claims cases.

    Is the MACRO/MPME Directory available for free use?

    Yes. The MACRO/MPME Directory is a free public resource provided by the Maryland Judiciary. Anyone can access it online to locate mediators, review their profiles, and contact them directly without paying a fee to use the directory.

    What types of disputes can I find mediators for?

    The directory covers mediators trained in a wide range of cases, including divorce and child custody, workplace conflicts, probate and elder care disputes, business disagreements, landlord-tenant issues, and small claims cases. Each mediator’s specialties are clearly listed in their profile.

    How do I search for mediators by location?

    You can filter mediators by county, city, or zip code in the MACRO/MPME Directory. This ensures you connect with professionals near your home, workplace, or the relevant court jurisdiction. Many mediators also offer remote or virtual session options.

    Are all mediators in the directory certified?

    Yes. All mediators listed in the MACRO/MPME Directory meet Maryland’s training and certification standards. This guarantees that every professional included has undergone proper education, skill evaluation, and is recognized by the state’s Alternative Dispute Resolution program.

    Do I need an attorney to use mediation services?

    No, you do not need an attorney to use a mediator found through the directory. Many individuals represent themselves. However, consulting an attorney beforehand may help clarify your rights and strengthen your preparation for a productive mediation session.

    What happens if I can’t find the right mediator in the directory?

    If the directory feels overwhelming or unclear, you can contact local mediation practices such as Saunders Mediation. They can guide you in choosing the right mediator, explain the process, and even provide direct services tailored to your case.