Why Mediate?

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WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF MEDIATION?

• Parties have more input and control over the outcome of their own problem.
• Disputes can be settled promptly. A mediation session can be scheduled as soon as both parties agree to use mediation to resolve the dispute.
• Mediation promotes better relationships through cooperative problem-solving and improved communication.
• Both facts and feelings are considered with the help of an impartial mediator.
• Mediation is private and confidential. The mediator and parties must maintain, to the full extent required by law, the confidentiality of the information disclosed during mediation.
• Mediation is voluntary, and may be terminated at any time by a party or the mediator. Although in court-referred mediation the parties may be ordered to attend a mediation session, any agreement is entirely voluntary. In the absence of agreement, the parties retain their right to take the dispute before a judge or jury.
• Mediation costs may be significantly less than taking a case to court, especially if mediation is chosen prior to filing a lawsuit.

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