FamilySearch Wiki:Dispute resolution

	This page explains a policy, a widely accepted standard that all contributors should normally follow.
Please visit the talk page to add comments or suggestions for further development of the policy.

Dispute resolution
Avoid disputes
Tips to avoid disputes
Mediation
Mediation Policy Mediation Committee Request mediation
Arbitration
Community Council
Remedies
Editing restrictions General sanctions

This policy describes what to do when you have a dispute with another contributor.

First Step: Try to work it out

When disputes arise between community members they are strongly encouraged to talk together and resolve their differences. When there are disputes, it is very important to:

1. Use the discussion (talk) pages to discuss issues, following the discussion (talk) page guidelines.
2. Follow the Etiquette Guidelines.
3. Accept that each party has the best interest of the wiki at heart.
   
4. Be civilized in your discusssions.

See also the article Wikipedia:Staying cool when the editing gets hot.

Second Step: Seek help from others 

If you can't come to a resolution between the parties through negotiation, you should ask for some outside assistance from other community members. A few option to explore are:

• Seek contributor assistance
• Post a question on the Get Help

Third Step: Mediation

If negotiations and informal help from third parties do not resolve the editing conflict, you may request mediation. Mediation is a more formal process whereby a neutral third party, a Mediator, helps to facilitate the conversation between the contributors.

Main article: FamilySearch Wiki:Mediation

Fourth Step: Arbitration

If Mediation doesn't resolve the problem, the issue may need to be escalated to the Arbitration Board. This is requested by the Mediator.

Main article: FamilySearch Wiki:Arbitration