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Mediation is an alternative resolution process where two parties are assisted by a neutral third party in communicating goals and achieving a solution.

Why mediation?

Efficient - Mediation often costs less and ends quicker than traditional litigation.

Neutral - Everyone at the table gets to present their side of the story and their goals.

Confidential - What happens in mediation, stays in mediation. 

Independent - Although some mediation can be mandated, it is up to the parties how much they contribute.  You decide what issues can be solved in mediation.   

Satisfying - Because mediation establishes a solution communicated and agreed to by both parties, more often than not it is easier to accomplish peace

The Process of Mediation

Mediation is less formal and more flexible than court litigation.  Mediation commences with the parties setting a time and place to meet.  At the first meeting, the neutral third party (a.k.a. the mediator) will explain her role and then help establish ground rules and goals for the mediation.  Then, the parties make opening statements in front of each other about their intentions.  Sometimes, the mediator will get the intentions from each party individually.  This will depend on your mediator.  Then it is all about the communication between the two parties.  No one else will make a decision for you.  The parties come to a mutual agreement.

Video “Consider Mediation” Written, directed and produced by Julie Crotty, LUMI Productions  www.juliecrotty.com ,First Place Winner of the ABA Mediation Video Contest