Mediation Is

Impartial & Confidential - The mediator…

Is neutral.
Does not decide the outcome.
Helps all parties come to a confidential and mutual agreement.

Collaborative -

Mediation is party centered.
Parties share their issues and their preferred outcomes.
An agreement is created by the parties and not the court system.

Cost and Time Effective -

Mediation saves money and time.
Mediation costs significantly less than hiring a lawyer.
Mediation allows parties to come to a quicker resolution and agreement.

From Beginning to End

Mediation Steps

1) Introduce parties, discuss the mediation process, and establish ground rules.

2) Each party shares their issues without interruption.

3) Joint discussion to clarify the issues that need to be resolved.

4) Private caucuses may be used by the mediator to have a better understanding of each party’s issue and to discuss potential solutions.

5) Adjust and refine proposed solutions.

6) If parties reach a resolution, then the final agreement is completed and signed by each party. The final agreement can be upheld in court in most states.