Mediation is a form of dispute resolution that uses a neutral third party to assist parties in resolving their disputes without court involvement. During the mediation process, Adrienne works with the parties to identify the issues in dispute and come to an agreement that both parties can accept.
There are many benefits to mediation, including:
There are many benefits to mediation, including:
- Voluntary. Mediation is a voluntary process. While some courts require mediation, the process itself is voluntary. Either party can stop the mediation process at any time, and no agreement needs to be reached.
- Neutrality. Mediators are neutral. A mediator does not take sides and remains neutral. Mediators strive to ensure that both parties feel equally heard.
- Confidentiality. Mediation is a confidential process. The information parties share with the mediator is kept confidential, with some very limited exceptions (similar to the exceptions). Proposals you may put forward during mediation, verbally or in documented form, cannot be referred to in court proceedings. If a mediation process isn’t successful and proceedings go to court, all discussions that took place or documents drawn up during the mediation, or reasons for the mediation not ending successfully cannot be revealed to the court.
- Self-determination. The parties are in control. Mediators do not make decisions and do not give legal advice. They can however provide parties with information and guidance to assist in their decision making and can point parties in the right direction toward organizations or other professionals with whom the parties can seek specific advice on any relevant issues.