Virginia law allows parties involved in franchise disputes related to passenger cars and trucks to request nonbinding mediation before a hearing before the Commissioner. The process involves serving a written demand, which tolls the hearing timeline, and then scheduling a mediation session within specified timeframes. This process aims to facilitate dispute resolution without immediate resort to formal hearings.
Yes, either party can demand nonbinding mediation before a hearing is commenced before the Virginia Commissioner.
The Commissioner selects a mediator from an approved list within ten days of the demand for mediation.
Yes, serving a demand for mediation tolls the timeline for filing requests and conducting hearings until mediation concludes.
The demand must be in writing, served by certified mail, and include a brief statement of the dispute and the relief sought.