Mediators talk with disputants jointly and/or separately during courteous and relaxed sessions in neutral settings. During this process with the appropriate facilitative approach, effective, satisfactory, and workable solutions that result in a wise agreement can often emerge. All of our mediators have a wide variety of techniques that can be used to resolve issues, have specialized training in their areas of practice and are familiar with the current state of the law with respect to court decisions in the area.

9 NORMS of Mediation

1. Disputes do not have to end in a win/lose situation. Conflict is best managed and solved by non-judgmental mediation.
2. In mediation, confidentiality is greater than it would be through litigation or in court.
3. Mediation is facilitative.
4. Mediators are impartial third parties with no vested interest in the outcome.
5. The mediator's job is to listen and help facilitate the parties to work out solutions that are relevant and meaningful.
6. Clients are given time to voice their concerns. As a result, clients feel empowered and satisfied throughout the process.
7. Mediation can be viewed as early neutral evaluation thus allowing counsel and their clients to make an informed decision.
8. Mediation is less time-consuming and certainly less costly than the traditional adversarial approach.
9. The parties are more likely to adhere to an agreement arrived at in Mediation.

The stress of prolonged disputes is manifested not only in wasted time and money, but in strain and dysfunction. Academic, government, and legal officials recognize that Alternative Dispute Resolution, especially mediation, can hasten the resolution of disputes and contribute to the best management of conflict.

During mediation, each party provides real input. Thus, a mediated solution is easier for most people to live with over time.

In short, mediation outcomes last longer because the parties perceive that their needs have been addressed, and that they have obtained personal empowerment throughout the process. This often results in better ongoing and future relationships between all parties involved.

For individual and family clients:

A.D.R. and Mediation can channel scarce financial, logistical, and even emotional resources into a satisfying win/win solution for all parties.

For corporate clients:

Workplace Mediation/Analysis Investigation can enhance morale reduced by internal conflict, re-motivate personnel, and recover resources otherwise diverted to prolonged litigation.

For lawyers:

A.D.R./Mediation referrals can maximize client satisfaction. Lawyers can focus on legal issues, and have access to other resources that provide equitable solutions for their clients.