Typically, a conflict between two or more parties is resolved through mediation. Mediation is a private, confidential, non-binding process in which a neutral person (often an attorney or retired judge) helps people who are in dispute with each other come up with their own solution to the problem. The mediator helps both sides understand each other and find common ground. The mediator also gives the people in dispute time to talk about what they want from the situation and explore ways that might satisfy everyone’s interests.
The mediation may last a few hours or a full day, depending on the number of parties and the complexity of issues. Often, the mediator meets with each side in separate rooms and has discussions with them to discuss possibilities for resolution. People who participate in mediation agree to keep what they say in the process confidential. People in the same family or workplace sometimes mediate together to resolve their disagreements.
Mediation can reduce costs, speed up resolution and provide for more flexibility than litigation or arbitration. People who participate in mediation are more likely to have an agreement that reflects the actual facts and circumstances of the case. They are more likely to create an outcome that does more than just solve the legal problem; it might actually repair or enhance their working or personal relationship. The outcome of a negotiated settlement is generally more satisfying for people than being awarded by a court in a lawsuit. what is mediation