Mediation as a method of alternative dispute resolution has steadily grown in popularity and use since the 1980s.
Most people are familiar with the idea of court-ordered mediation for civil and family law cases. But many people don’t know these facts about mediation;
- If you have a dispute with another party, you can choose to hire an impartial mediator and go to mediation before filing a lawsuit.
- You can find a private mediator on your own or with an attorney’s help.
- You can ask for a judge to order mediation in a case if it hasn’t already been ordered.
- There are different types of mediation, and different fee schedules (which depend on a variety of factors).
- Yes, it really is confidential.
- In some situations, you may be able to get free, low-cost or sliding scale mediation.
- Mediation can benefit your case by clarifying the issues, or helping you settle a few of the issues on the list, even if it doesn’t lead to a complete settlement.
- Mediation may ultimately save you money.
- In some situations, a court order or contract may require mediation prior to filing a suit.
- Mediation and arbitration differ from each other in several important ways, but are both part of the process called Alternative Dispute Resolution.