Understanding Mediation
Mediation is a process in which two or more people involved in a dispute come together to try to find a fair and workable solution to their problem. They do so with the help of a mediator, a neutral third person who is trained in cooperative conflict resolution techniques.
Mediation can be used to resolve most types of civil (noncriminal) disputes that traditionally would end up in court, such as those involving personal injuries, contracts, leases, employment, and divorce. Mediators are also skilled at resolving interpersonal disputes between neighbors, roommates, business partners, coworkers, and friends.Certainly, the most efficient way to resolve any dispute is simply to sit down with the other person involved and talk it out. But if that’s not possible, mediation will usually be the best alternative.
Use of mediation as a means of resolving disputes has grown rapidly in the United States in recent years. Wherever you live, you should be able to find a mediator or mediation service to help with your dispute. And in most cases, you will not need a lawyer to go to mediation. The rules of mediation are usually simple and straightforward. The preparation may take some time and thought, but won’t overwhelm you with complicated technicalities. The mediation itself will follow a simple procedure and will be conducted in plain English.
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