Mediation is a confidential process used to resolve conflicts in a calm and organized manner. The objective of mediation is for parties already in conflict to participate in a professional dialogue regarding their dispute, to present their points of view, and explore options for a mutually beneficial settlement and resolution of their dispute.
How Does It Work?
An impartial mediator directs the process and facilitates the communication between the parties in an effort to explore solutions and obtain a mutually satisfactory agreement. The mediator welcomes the participants and explains the mediation process, the mediator's role in the process and the rules of mediation, usually in a joint session. The participants then present their issues they want to resolve, explore their options and look for a mutual resolution, frequently in a private session format. If the parties reach an agreement at mediation, this is typically a binding agreement.