Mediation is an alternative method of resolving a dispute. An alternative to going to court or arbitration, both of which involve the imposition of a rigid solution by a judge or arbitrator following an expensive, adversarial procedure.
In contrast mediation settlements are negotiated by the parties, with the mediator facilitating and assisting the negotiation. The solution, by definition, is one which both parties are prepared to accept.
Mediation so often succeeds because it is :-
Voluntary – the parties are not obliged to reach a settlement and can walk away without prejudice. Mediation is at the very least a risk free way to get a much better understanding of the other side’s point of view.
Cost Effective – the earlier in the dispute parties mediate the greater the potential for costs savings. Management time and resources as well as legal and court fees can be greatly reduced.
Fast – as soon as agreement to mediate is reached it is just a matter of checking the diaries and arranging the mediation appointment.
Common Sense Solutions – there is no loser in a mediated settlement. The possible solutions are not limited by legal precedent. Mediation provides a method of reviewing the parties perceptions and of gaining realistic outcomes.
Rebuilds Relationships – where ongoing relationships are important mediation gives an opportunity of preserving them whilst resolving the dispute.
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