What is mediation?

Mediation is an alternate form of dispute resolution where disputes or conflicts are resolved confidentially with the help of a neutral third party, called a mediator. The mediator facilitates communication between the parties, attempting to help them reach a mutually agreeable solution without resorting to formal legal proceedings.

Private mediation: Both sides agree to mediate voluntarily, typically outside of the court system. They can choose the mediator, set the pace, and control the process. If a solution is reached, it is voluntary, but the parties can opt to later turn it into a court order, so that it has the same legal weight as a judge’s ruling.

Court-ordered mediation: A judge orders the parties to mediate as part of a lawsuit or legal dispute, often before or during litigation. If an agreement is reached, it can be made into a binding court order, meaning it has the same legal weight as a judge’s ruling.