“Conflicts are often the direct result of a breakdown in communication – consider using a communications specialist to fix the problem.” ~Paul
Mediation as an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process
ADR, particularly mediation, is a viable option to avoid the high cost and time required when using litigation to resolve conflict. Facilitated mediation fosters a collaborative environment where party’s work together to find a solution versus litigation where party’s use Attorneys as advocates to fight for them. Mediation is a voluntary process where all parties agree, with assistance from a neutral mediator, to constructively communicate and work collaboratively toward a mutually beneficial agreement that considers all aspects of every party’s personal situation to create a long-term solution that is maintainable.
What does mediation cost?
Every situation is different. From the complexity of the conflict to the willingness of the parties to think creatively about solutions, or not. While mediation is billed hourly, the fact that both parties split the cost of one Mediator, I could argue that the average mediation costs less than the cheapest contentious litigation. There are still filing fees and you may want an Attorney to review the agreement, but those costs are reasonable and well worth it.
Talk to the Mediator
If you are open to engaging a mediator to help resolve your conflict, why should you consider choosing a mediator who is not an Attorney or a retired Judge? Because the mediation process is about the conversation itself – it’s a communication process. Mediation leverages a skilled neutral third party, the mediator, to help the parties who are in conflict talk, and more importantly listen, in a new and more effective way than before. Litigation or arbitration (a very different ADR process) is about a legal professional interpreting and applying the law related to your conflict. While Attorneys and/or Judges can make excellent Mediators, expertise in the legal field is not required for successful conflict resolution through the mediation process.
How does the process start?
Start by speaking to the Mediator. You’ll get an idea of how the process starts and what you can expect along the way to resolving your conflict.
We offer a free consultation for up to 45 minutes. Please go to our Contact page or use the button below to tell us about your situation and we will discuss how Conflicts Mediated can help.