Mediation

Mediation is a voluntary form of conflict resolution that brings parties together with a neutral mediator who helps them work through conflict to find mutually beneficial solutions. A key point is that the mediator will not make a decision for the parties – the parties retain control of their own resolution.

Typically, yes. If the parties reach an agreement in mediation, it is normally put in writing and signed by the participants. That signed agreement can affect the legal rights of the parties going forward.

Mediation isn’t about changing your mind – it is about giving you the opportunity to take control of your conflict. The mediation process offers parties an opportunity to express themselves and to find unique, creative solutions that aren’t offered by traditional litigation.

Mediation can occur at almost any time, even after a lawsuit has been filed. In most cases, it is best to mediate as early as possible so that the parties can avoid spending more time, energy and money on the conflict.

Lawyers are welcome, but not necessary. Attorneys can provide legal advice regarding your options and the effects of a signed agreement on your rights moving forward. However, some parties choose to check in with lawyers by phone or feel comfortable moving forward on their own. It is worth noting the mediator cannot be your lawyer. I can either represent you in a mediation, or mediate your case, but I cannot do both.

Yes. Mediators will not reveal the names of parties involved in mediations or any details about the situation. The only exception is if someone threatens physical harm to themselves or someone else during the mediation. Most mediators ask parties to sign a waiver stating that they will not subpoena the mediator or any written work from the mediation in court.

Mediation is, at its core, a voluntary process. However, many judges or statutes will mandate that parties attempt mediation because it is often successful and takes some of the burden off the court system. If you have been ordered to mediate, you are required to show up to the session and put forth a good faith effort. You are NOT required to come to a resolution.

Mediation is a flexible, informal process that can be tailored to the needs of the parties. Some sessions begin by bringing both parties together and allowing each the time to tell their story, while others are conducted with the parties in separate rooms and the mediator going back and forth between them. In joint sessions, mediators often use caucuses to meet individually with each party to have private conversations.

The goal of mediation is to allow the parties to have a guided conversation or for the mediator to be able to share enough information that the parties can work toward a mutually beneficial solution. Mediation can be a place to brainstorm new ideas or to negotiate traditionally, with each party modifying their offers as they gain more information. How the process unfolds is really up to the parties.