Mediation is a method for resolving disputes collaboratively.  In mediation, people work together to identify, discuss and jointly resolve the issues in dispute. 

Mediating offers significant advantages over litigation and other processes.  With mediation you can:

• Save time and money

• Preserve valued business or personal relationships

• Reduce stress and worry

 

Save Time and Money

Mediation puts you in control of the process, which helps you control costs.  For example, you decide who will participate in the mediation, whether attorneys or other experts will be present, what will be the length and frequency of mediation sessions, etc.  Many mediations can be scheduled and completed within weeks of being initiated.

 

Preserve Valued Relationships

Resolving a dispute doesn’t have to mean the end of an important business or personal relationship.  The mediation process encourages effective communication by:

• Affording each person opportunities to have concerns addressed

• Enhancing opportunities to find common ground

• Promoting clear communication

• Preventing misunderstandings

• Exploring ways for both sides to “win”

 

Reduce Stress and Worry

One of the most frustrating and painful aspects of litigation is the feeling that someone else controls your destiny.  In mediation, you are directly involved in all decision-making so you need not worry that important decisions about your future will be imposed on you.

 

How Mediation Works

In mediation you work together with the other person to resolve your dispute without a judge or jury.  The mediator guides you through a process of identifying, discussing, and resolving the issues raised by the participants.  You and the other person make all decisions,  including what issues are discussed, what additional information may be needed, and how each issue is resolved.  The mediator assists you but does not substitute his/her judgment for yours.

 

Mediation Can Work For You

Here are some of the many disputes that can be mediated:

• Business breakups and management issues

• Employer-employee disputes

• Modification and interpretation of contracts

• Divorce, alimony, division of property

• Breach of contract

• Child custody and support

• Neighborhood disputes

• Disputes between estate heirs

• Landlord-tenant disputes

• Workplace discrimination issues