Mediation
A mediator works directly with people in conflict to find a mutually agreeable resolution to their dispute. However, the mediator does not decide or pass judgment. The parties make all of the decisions.
Mediation services are about helping people find the solutions that work best for them. The mediator’s job is to help the parties to fully understand and effectively communicate their needs in a safe and confidential environment. Acting as a neutral guide, a good mediator facilitates important discussions and provides valuable information and insight along the way. With the mediator’s help, the parties identify and explore various possible solutions. So parties can decide for themselves how well the possibilities satisfy their important goals and needs.
Mediation encourages constructive communication and creative problem solving. It empowers clients to make all important decisions regarding the resolution of their dispute. Clients control the outcomes, instead of outsourcing responsibility for their fates to a stranger. Mediation services do not necessarily guarantee that a mutually agreeable resolution will be achieved. But when successful, mediation can be highly efficient. So you can save time, money and emotional cost.
Mediation provides an excellent choice for parties who see the benefit of making the important decisions in their lives together. Successful mediation does not require alignment of opinions or the absence of conflict. (If that were the case, the parties would not need a mediator’s assistance). Instead, mediation requires only a willingness of both parties to discuss their interests, and listen to and work with one another to seek mutually satisfactory outcomes.