An alternative dispute resolution (ADR) meeting where people employ a trained, neutral mediator to help them reach a voluntary and mutually agreed upon resolution to the problem.
With litigation, each person hires an attorney to prepare their case; then a judge or jury decides who is right and who is wrong.
Most disagreements can be mediated. Even after a law suit has begun, mediation can settle the matter in a less expensive and timely way.
Privacy . The process of mediation is voluntary and confidential for all participants, any attorneys and the mediator. Mediation is not a matter of public record; a final resolution can be created and kept private too. Control . No judge decides the outcome. There is no legal precedent or jury to scrutinize right and wrong. The parties have the opportunity to "tell your side of the story", without lawyers stating "inadmissible". Relationships . Most relationships are important to maintain intact. Business partnerships, family, friendships and social relationships of long standing are often soothed and maintained based on mediation. Responsibility . Mediation encourages parties to assume responsibility for some part of the disagreement. It's not blaming, but rather accepting one's role in contributing to the disagreement and solution. Speed . Scheduling can be quick and resolution for most disagreements is usually achievable within a day or two and no longer than 30 days. Options . No one is forced to accept a solution that does not meet his/her interests and needs. If no resolution, the parties may still go to court to resolve their disagreement. Neither the parties (or any attorney) may introduce into evidence what happened or did not happen during the mediation.
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