Mediation is a private and voluntary method of dispute resolution in which the disputing parties agree to allow a third-party (the mediator) to help resolve their differences in a respectful, non-adversarial manner. Taking no sides, the mediator guides negotiation that allows the parties to create a tailor-made agreement. Mediation is a positive, cost-effective alternative to solving disputes in court. As a collaborative, non-adversarial process, mediation is particularly important when the parties hope to maintain or re-establish a positive relationship with one another.

For further information, please see Benefits of Mediation.

The Mediation Process

Mediation is an informal, voluntary and flexible process. Often the mediator will first meet individually with each party to explain the mediation process and discuss the person’s concerns. Once everyone agrees to proceed, the mediator arranges that the disputing parties come together to a mediation session. The mediation session is intended to identify the issues, clear up any misunderstandings, look for solutions, and work out a mutually acceptable agreement.

Mediators participating in JusticeNet are professionally trained and accredited.