Foster the development of community-based programs that will assist citizens in resolving disputes and developing skills in conflict resolution;
(2)
Allow flexible and diverse programs to be developed in this state, to meet specific needs in local areas and to benefit this state as a whole through experiments using a variety of models of peaceful dispute resolution;
(3)
Find alternative methods for addressing the needs of crime victims in criminal cases when those cases are either not prosecuted for lack of funds or can be more efficiently handled outside the courts;
(4)
Provide a method to evaluate the effect of dispute resolution programs on communities, local governments, the justice system and state agencies;
(5)
Encourage the development and use of mediation panels for resolution of civil litigation disputes;